I've tried a few different front ends for fun in the past and they're fun to tinker with, I'll admit. I don't think I used freetube.
Also it was some months ago, but the biggest issue I found was that I couldn't sync watch lists. I could add subs and things but if I watched something on my phone, whatever front-end on my computer would tell me I still hadn't watched that video and recommend it.
Is there a way around this? Because, that's a huge deal breaker for me. As an end goal, I want less Google in my life, but there are certain inconveniences I am unwilling to tolerate (however seemingly small lol).
Anyway, I may start tinkering again soon. Thanks for the reply!