Elliptical Machines

Hi there. I'm hoping to get some information that might help me. I absolutely LOVE using the elliptical at our local recreation center. I can go for a good bit and get a really decent cardio workout on it. The problem is that my membership has lapsed and I am also now in school full time as well as work full time so have been trying to justify the cost being as I won't be able to get there often. Well now I've been diagnosed with posterior tibial tendonitis which makes walking super painful and the elliptical and cycling are better options because of the way the pressure is placed on the foot. I've got to do something to exercise to keep my mental health in shape as well as try to maintain if not lose a few pounds while I go through this semester.

So here is my question. Years ago I bought a used elliptical machine from somebody and it just wasn't the same as the ones I use at the recreation center. It was so much harder to pedal and it was like the stance or something was different. I never used it much because it wore me out too fast (like 5 minutes and I can do an hour easy on the others). So do I try to find a better machine to use at home since getting to the gym is an issue? What kind would you recommend that is comparable to the high end ones at the fitness centers? Our membership is only $200/year so I know way cheaper than buying a machine but dang the time. Ugh! Just trying to come up with a solution.

Any advice is appreciated. Thank you!