I struggled and struggled with smaller tanks and followed the advice that 29 gallons is where it begins to get easy.
A few years later, I have upsized the 29 to a 55 and I have a 10 gallon. I have to say the 29 is the easiest I've ever kept. The 10 is actually a complete pain in the rear.
The logic is, water parameters are more stable in larger tanks, and I find this to be true.
The 29 is fairly easy for water changes too, without buying special equipment. And 29 gallon starter kits (I like the Marineland LED because of the filter) are reasonably priced.
You can also get a fair number of fish into it.
I cannot recommend highly enough getting The Simple Guide to Freshwater Aquariums by Boruchowitz. And staying here. The book balances the conflicting opinions you'll get in the forums. It has straightforward explanations for getting started, including a fish-in cycle, and lots (LOTS) of stocking schemes that are interesting assortments of fish that do well together, in a beginners tank.
That book recommends either a 29 or a 55 for beginners. If you don't buy a "Python" type water changer I'd suggest a 29.
For fish less cycling you'll have to look to the boards here.
Sent from my iPhone with three hands tied behind my back.