Your source that claims wood turtles are easier to mainatain than box turtles is incorrect. Care for either species is very similar. In fact, many Central and South American wood turtles tend to be semi-aquatic(wading, not swimming) which would make them slightly higher maintenance than a box turtle.
A North American box turtle may well be your best choice. Another good pick might be a Russian tortoise. Either species will typically max out at 8"usually less). Box turtles are omnivores while the Russian tortoise is a herbivore. Either species will do best if kept outdoors in a secure pen. If you have to keep the animal indoors, be prepared,'cos initial setup (done right) can be costly. If you chose to keep them outdoors be aware they can be diggers(especially Russian tortoises).You will want to design your pen accordingly.
You may have difficulty finding captive born Russians, but captive born box turtles are slowly becoming more common.
Good luck!
All the best,
Perry

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