There's not really a greta alternative that just allows you to sign in I believe. NewPipe indeed requires import, which can be a hassle. I recommend trying the ReVanced route for yourself once, because it allows you to select whichever patches you want (removing the Shorts is one of the options).
Best of luck!
Personally i try to steer clear of Google services so I dont sign in to YouTube. I keep a list of channels along with any interesting looking videos in a note taking app which syncs to various devices via Nextcloud.
Its a small extra step but ive become used to it so its second nature & it works for me.
I do newpipe and do an export if I add some stuff to the Playlist or remove or add a channel on my subscription. Can export just the channel list to a json. You can import in the json file into freetube (newpipe like desktop program) or piped instance website.
Been the easiest way for me to get a subscription feed without a Google account across mobile or desktop.
If you're set on using your Google account, your only real options are to use Revanced or the mobile website with a browser addon/extension (e.g., Fennec F-Droid, Kiwi Browser).
Install Vivaldi browser and use YouTube in the browser. It will also hide ads.
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