Instanced PvP feels bearable because Blizzard have been continuously making hotfixes to PvP stat templates for many specs. Balance is still far from perfect, but it has definitely improved compared to launch (which isn't much of a compliment lol).
That said, gearing and the RNG reward system is still stupid IMO.
Has anyone noticed raiku being first EU 3v3 arena standings on his mage? Agree, in random battlegrounds when 'the melee pack' has picked up your smell, you die without iceblock or some nice moves to draw their attention away from you onto another unfortunate faction member. But with good setup in 3v3 arena mages can push high numbers without any doubt.