Steve,
All depends on what you want to do. I have never done much scan and convert to GCode work as most of
"the free ones" didn't do much for the work i try to do. The only way to find something that works for you is to try
the program. Sometimes, when looking for bargain software, you end up spending more time learning than it is worth.
LC pro has served me well for creating Gcode for a profile, offsets, pocketing and general milling. I never fooled with the image
module in it to any great extent. So for the price it's not a bad program at all. I don't use the lathe module much since LazyTurn is now available.
You will need to learn and do CAD to use it.
Then if you want to mill 3D you need to learn 3D CAD. Since most programs require a file to work from.
Then you will need a CAM program to generate the code for 3D machning.
Then you have pictures / image manipulation, etc and a lot of software is tailored to it.
Of course what is good for woodworking may not be suitable for metal machining.
So lets sum the above up some:
CAD , 2.5 cam program, 3d CAD, 3D CAM...image manipulation post image creation via whatever method is done.....so you can have individual programs for each or a CAM program that does it all...or something in between. I will say that each one is a learning curve in itself.
So think hard about what you want to do now and maybe in the future.
Grow with each individualy or as needed over time.
If there is one program that does all very well, then chances are, your budget can't afford it for hobbiest work.
Have fun exploring the "envelope" of CNC,
RICH