I know it's been awhile since you posted, but here's my thoughts...
If you're looking for a lizard that will be
easier to care for than a bearded dragon, Uromastyx and Chinese Water Dragons are definitely NOT going to be the way to go. Uromastyx are roughly the same level of care as beardies (though some may argue, easier in the sense that they're completely herbivorous and therefore don't need crickets). CWDs are a much higher level of care--with them, you need an enclosure where they can climb significantly, and you actually need to make sure humidity stays high (as opposed to beardies, where it really doesn't matter too much). Plus, CWDs are insectivores... No easy salads to get you through half the feedings. They need bugs, bugs, and more bugs. Plus, both of these get in the same size range as Beardies. CWDs
are, IIRC, smaller than beardies, but they also need a bigger (taller) space than a Beardie.
So, obviously, my recommendation is to go for the African Fat Tail Gecko. They don't need UVB. Humidity is largely inconsequential (though they do need it a bit more humid than someting like a beardie). They don't get huge, and they consequently don't take up huge space--a 20 gallon Long is fine for one gecko. Both smaller and MUCH easier care than a Bearded dragon.
CWDs and Uros are great lizards each in their own right, don't get me wrong. But since you specifically outline in your post that you want something "easier" and "not as big" as a Bearded, then neither of those is going to be the lizard for you. AFTs are great pet geckos, and it sounds like your best option, unless you change your mind about the importance of easy care and smaller size.
Good luck with whatever you choose.
