When helping my students find their 1st trainer, I do the following.

1. Wing area, the greater the wing area, the slower and more stable the plane can fly.

2. Price, 90% of beginner planes are mostly in the same price bracket. Most trainers are anywhere from 100 bucks to 300 not including accessories.

3. Looks/ style, many students are very particular how their plane looks. Looks may not mean much to you, but to others it does. It depends on the person.

Trainers come in all forms. High wing, shoulder wing, low wing, mid wing, bi- wing, tri- gear, tail dragger, electric, nitro etc...

Smaller planes doesn't mean they are easier to fly, as they are more nimble than the bigger planes.

As long as you stay under the 10 lb range, you should be good to go.

Good Luck!