What is the harder instrument to play, piano or guitar?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as the difficulty of learning an instrument is subjective and can vary greatly depending on an individual's natural aptitude, learning style, and previous musical experience. Here are some aspects to consider when comparing the piano and guitar:

Piano:

1. A more intuitive layout of notes, making it easier for beginners to understand and visualize music theory concepts.
2. Simultaneous playing of chords and melodies is generally more straightforward.
3. No need for finger strength or calluses, as keys require less pressure to play.

Guitar:

1. Finger strength and dexterity are essential, as fretting and plucking strings can be challenging for beginners.
2. Developing calluses on the fingers may be uncomfortable initially.
3. Playing chords and complex fingerings may be more difficult due to the nature of the instrument.

Ultimately, the difficulty of learning either instrument depends on personal preference, dedication, and practice. It's important to choose an instrument that you are passionate about and enjoy playing, as this will encourage you to practice and persevere in your learning journey.
What would be an easy instrument to learn for someone with minimal musical background?
That’s a great question. Learning a musical instrument can be a rewarding and enjoyable hobby. There are many instruments that are suitable for beginners, depending on your preferences, budget and goals. According to the web search results, some of the easiest instruments to learn for adults are:

Ukulele: This is a small stringed instrument that has only four strings and a simple fretboard. It is easy to learn basic chords and strumming patterns, and it produces a cheerful and pleasant sound. You can also find many online tutorials and songs to play on the ukulele.
Keyboard: This is a versatile instrument that can mimic the sound of a piano or other instruments. It is easy to learn how to play single notes and simple chords on the keyboard, and you can also use headphones to practice without disturbing others. The keyboard can help you develop your musical ear and coordination skills.
Recorder: This is a woodwind instrument that has a simple fingering system and produces a clear and sweet tone. It is easy to learn how to blow into the recorder and play basic melodies. The recorder is also very affordable and portable, and it can introduce you to the basics of music theory and notation.
Drums: This is a percussion instrument that consists of various drums and cymbals that you hit with sticks or your hands. It is easy to learn how to keep a steady beat and play simple rhythms on the drums, and you can also improvise and express yourself creatively. The drums can help you improve your sense of timing and coordination.
These are just some examples of easy instruments to learn for beginners. Of course, you may also want to consider other factors such as your personal interest, musical taste, availability of teachers or resources, and space requirements when choosing an instrument. Ultimately, the best instrument for you is the one that you enjoy playing and learning.