I'm not entirely sure what question is - is it just about design/aesthetics or about the coating on the door and durability?
I LOVE the look of the aluminum/glass doors but my impression was that they were very expensive compared to the standard steel options. If I had the dough I would have opted for an aluminum + glass but it simply wasn't in the budget. Plus I don't believe you can do a fully insulated door if you go that route, so depending on the situation that could be a deal breaker too.
Since I didn't have the $ for a fancy aluminum one I worked with my installer to have a custom "standard" door put in. I had them install the windows in a vertical array instead of horizontal. And I went with a smooth, flush panel door. The only upcharge for this was the cost of laminated glass vs the standard windows which I needed due to the low windows.
I would also recommend that you talk to as many installers as you can. Sears wouldn't touch my "custom" order. Two other installers were willing and able to do my custom door and their pricing was within $100-$200 for door, opener, install, & haul away. And then my architect recommended another local guy who ended up being a few hundred cheaper than the other two, more willing to work with me some install "details" AND to top it all off the door ended up being "smooth" finish which the other installers were going to give me a hefty upcharge for. All the appointments and phone calls were a pain but now that it's all said and done I couldn't be happier and feel that the extra work paid off as I'm happier than can be with my new door.
