This is the key. If you can set up a tank so that it takes care of itself the hobby becomes fun and not a chore. Small tanks are a challenge because little changes can upset their balance quickly, but if you don't try to push the Nano beyond its limits they can be stable and low maintenance.

 

I take care of 4 tanks 55 Gallons and smaller and I spend less than 2 hours per week in maintenance besides the 5 minutes a day to run the mag float over the glass. One day I would like to try a bigger tank because of the greater variety of livestock and aquascaping options that are possible. I'm hoping that the lessons I've learned with the smaller tanks will help me set up a larger tank that also takes care of itself for the most part.

 

Comments like these are interesting and make me smile.  I smile because this goes against tradition. The old rule of thumb was the larger the tank the better. This is still true, but to a much lesser extent now that we know more about tank chemistry and use better filtration methods. These days we have a better understanding of the use of LR, LS, LW, Algae, efficient skimmers, AC, good feeding and the effective use of living organisms to keep things in balance. This knowledge is what makes the Nano possible.

 

What I am seeing here in this thread is the same need that has always existed in this hobby. The need to learn and understand the biology and chemistry of a reef aquarium. Hobbyists need to learn how to set it up so a tank can take care of itself. They also need to learn how to spot problems before they bloom out of control. Hobbyists need to understand that 5 snails in that Nano with a small PC converts to 200 snails in that 180 with MH lighting and an overpopulation of carnivorous fish. And that converts to the need for a lot of $$$$$$

The question as I see it, is not which one is easier, but does a hobbyist want to take the time to learn how to do it.