I've not had hash browns since I was little so I can't really remember what they taste like but I'm sure you could gap the hole with some mashed/fried potatoes!
home made hash browns are lovely and far better for you, as they are made from fresh products instead of lots of salt, dehydrated potato and potato starch.
of course if you want something quick then they are handy for an occasional thing.
According to the food optimising book an average 40g hash brown is 2 syns. My fry ups wouldn't be the same without it! Sometimes you don't have the time to make them from scratch so i grill a couple and syn them