In general, it's better not to force an action onto users. You might prefer things opening in a new tab, but you always have that option. If it's forced on users, it is frustrating for those who would prefer that not to happen.

That's a good user setting, but as opening in the same tab is the default browser behaviour then it should really stay that way. Opening in a new tab takes control away from the user.

100% agree. I had to install a browser extension when I use HN with such (vs app on android, when it does it by default), just to force open links to new tabs.

I'd rather have an icon next to the link that implies "Open in new Tab" like one of these with the arrow:

https://www.flaticon.com/free-icons/new-tab

I too prefer that, but i don't want to force that choice on othet people.

CTRL+left click is ingrained in me now anyway.

I do as well, but I think it's good practice to put something like in a user preference setting somewhere if you are going to stray from default browser/system behavior.

And people who prefer the other way can just hold down _____ while clicking to open it in the current tab instead.

Good ol' _____-clicking saves the day again!

why the downvotes, I meant to demonstrate that I prefer the current behaviour so the site developer knows.