I started out on the road so my default climbing position is on the brake hoods. I find bar ends replicate the position. Nice to have more than one hand position too..
I started using the little ergon curved grips on one of my bikes a good few years ago as it helped with wrist pain. They had what was a super tiny stubbie "bar endy bit" on.
Have to say I do like them on my retros - but also like risers; and they don't mix.
Must admit, the more I use my gravel bike with drops, the more I think it would be better with 700mm bars and bar ends. Being able to change hand position certainly helps on longer rides. Wouldn't want/need them on my big mountain bikes but they certainly have a place.