Affordable Poker Software?

[NotStudying]

I'm on a teach-myself-poker kick, and I want to play some on my computer since home games are hard to find. I'm hesitant to play any online games b/c I'm concerned with cookies/spam, the hassle of putting in money, and risk of actually losing it all; so I want some good poker software.

I've seen people on the site mention Poker Academy Pro, but it seems expensive. Is there something a little less expensive (even if it's a little less flashy)? Or is there really only the one good software program?

Thanks!