Roku ultra I got for my grandparents up and died due to a power surge. So I'm getting them a new box for Christmas next week. But I know they love how my Shield has the ad free YouTube, but they don't need a shelf for what they do, I'm not sure what Android tv box is closest to the ultra since I know that's fine for them.
TVision Hub.
A shelf for what they do? You mean the issue is with the size of the Pro model? Then get the tube. Mine sits right behind the TV out of view.
Roku is trash. Get them a shield and call it a day
but they love your shield...Give them your shield and you buy yourself a gooleTV Chromecast.
Do they know any device can have ad free YouTube? They don't have to switch away from Roku is that's the only reason they want a different platform. But in any event the ONN UHD from Walmart as long as they don't need Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos is highly recommended. If they need Ethernet any micr USB hub with Ethernet will provide that for them.
You can check out the Chromecast with Google TV. Or either wait for other people’s recommendations