If you are talking about viewable glass, you are going to need to get a pdf of the frame and sash rail dimensions to see the delta there.

In terms of materials, the E series is a clad wood where as the A series is a composite product.

They wood both be clad wood products, one clad with Aluminium and the other on fiberglas.

Thank you so much for all that information! Do you happen to know where I can see an image or drawing of the E Series venting sidelights, and their size options...and the shades-between-the-glass? I don't find them on the site. I appreciate your help!

Here is the link for the full E series product guide: https://awwebcdnprdcd.azureedge.net/-/media/aw/files/brochures/product-guide-eagle-window-door-1101-9046500.pdf?modified=20190920190701

Wow, thank you, this is definitely a help! I have another isolated question: For design reasons, I may want the handles of the E Series hinged patio doors to be vertical instead of horizontal like all of them are on their site. I want vertical black handles that will lie on the black frame (not over the glass) so as to be subdued and not to stand out. Do you know if that's doable? Thanks so much!!

I think it's possible, but it would be incredibly cumbersome and uncomfortable to operate. The handle engages a multi-point lock mechanism. You actually rotate it up to engage the locks - so it must be able to rotate both vertically up and vertically down. It certainly wouldn't work if you had paired operable doors. Also, if you did this, the handle would be blocking the lock. If you don't want the handle sticking in front of the glass, you should use a sliding door.

thanks again for the info. i specifically want hinged doors. saw this on houzz:

https://www.houzz.com/hznb/photos/nyc-traditional-entry-phvw-vp~78903644

Those are push-out casement windows, not doors.

ah, I see, thank you. Would you be able to have a phone convo with me? If yes, what is your number? Are you a designer, contractor, in windows sales...?

I'm just a homeowner who has recently replaced all windows and researched the options and product lines exhaustively. If you want to PM me, I'm happy to answer any other questions you may have.

Dear nexp,

For an arrangement of four 3' black doors, 7' high, no grilles, the two center doors open to a 6' opening - I'm trying to figure out which of these will give me the most unobstructed light, and a modern look:

a. the Andersen E Series traditional (to my eye, the images of the traditional and contemporary on the site look identical, besides the rail on the traditional which is 8".)

b. the Andersen E Series contemporary (Is a narrow rail a bad idea, if there are kids around? the traditional's 8" rail acts like a kickplate somewhat...)

c. Marvin Ultimate - Marvin's site doesn't offer much info.