Steven Zahm@ Alexa
re: several premium templates (such as Slim Plus) state that they are the more advanced versions of their free counterparts.
Sorry about the confusion but there are no free counterparts. There never were. If you could let me know what was said that was confusing, I can correct it. Thanks.
re; I am only seeing three free templates (Default, Names and Profile), and they are all basically useless
How are they useless? They show the information of entries. Most use users the free templates to their great satisfaction. Some, purchase the premium templates because they like the visual presentation and/or enhanced features.
Have you clicked the Customize button for either the Default Entry Card or Profile templates? That allows you to visually configure the template such as what to display, the image settings, some colors and other advanced settings.