Hi;
The free version is fully functional, not time-limited, and doesn’t add nags or popups to the admin area beyond the banner which is present on the main plugin settings page. It can be used to replace all the same strings as the Pro version – so actually I think it’s a great deal and many people will be able to use the plugin – for-free – to do what they want.
The Pro version does come with a number of additional features that make it easier and quicker to set up new replacements, for example String Discovery, and of course professional support. Both of these I think are well-worth the price in terms of potential time savings.
I will always recommend the Pro version – but there’s nothing to suggest you *have* to buy the Pro version – if the free version works for you then that’s awesome!
I’m sorry you feel the way you do, perhaps the above helps explain things.
All the best.
Lee