New to ellipticals - help please

goodasgoldilox165

I would like to buy an elliptical this year (they were my favourite part of the gym in the long-ago timew when I used to live near one ) but am really confused by the number for sale. Have you any advice on what makes a good one or what to avoid? We are a tall family (2 of the boys only just fit through a doorway). Does this mean I should be looking at a long stride or doesn't it matter? I've noticed that some have the working parts at the front and some at the back - does this make a difference?
Thanks for your help!