Yes, that is the difference - piling the snow causes the snow to sinter so that it will hold the shape of the shell after the snow is dug out. Quinzees tend to be larger inside as well. Probably due to the more stable shell.
We didn't have the right conditions for true snow caves.
The building of the quinzee probably takes 3-5 hours depending on the size, snow condition, and amount of help available. It does need to sit for a 1-2 hours between piling the snow and digging it out. The big disadvantage is the amount of snow being moved - piling, digging out, clearing from the area. I don't think one person could realistically build one.
However, in a backwoods situation, I wouldn't build one unless it was an emergency or I was planning on using a base camping for several days. It is a lot of work. For a long stay it could be worth it.
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