I have both versions. MeterBasic is the freeware version - Meter is the commercial version. Both versions function identical. The commercial version allows you to print more than one scale, use different colors, change fonts, etc. but the basic functionality of both versions is the same. If you are having a problem with the scale not printing correctly, more than likely it is an error in the way you set up the scale parameters. Jim Tonne has placed an excellent help file in the program and each parameter has a clickable link to a help reference. Also, don't forget to calibrate your printer to set it up for an accurate scale - another feature that is built in. The learning curve to use either program is not that steep.
Mike