You just need to learn to use your spells as a ranger. You can 2x armor just like a rogue so yes, you can wear plate like a rogue. Problem is, they can 3x hiding and get armor and CM skills that help their hiding, while you don't... Your equivalent stuff is in your spell circles, which... Yeah, you won't be casting. I haven't played ranger in a long time, but I see more benefit at stopping at Brig than continuing on. The class was designed to use the spells you get.
You won't really be picking your own boxes as a ranger, you can 2x pick and disarm, but I don't foresee you being able to maintain that, unless you weaken yourself somewhere else.
Ceterum censeo Carthaginem esse delendam