Especially as a beginner, it's important to use your camera often, because that's the only way to gradually become familiar with all the settings. For this, a camera should be compact enough that it doesn't bother you. What that means exactly depends on you.
Basically, you can assume that less compact cameras have more features. In some cases, however, it makes sense not to buy a compact camera. Professional photographers often prefer to use somewhat larger cameras, since too small displays and setting wheels and buttons can also be annoying in the long run. So if you have large hands, for example, a larger model might be just right for you. You can select your personal preference here.