Depends upon how you look at it. Many companies offer 'free' downloads, but disable their product at the end of a trial period. The statement above is true yet the definition of the term admittedly could be more specific NCH policy seems generous by comparison as their trials do not expire. Limitations are to be expected; if the company gave software away they wouldn't still be around after 25 years.
Your all-nighter likely isn't relevant. As noted, AVI export often succeeds. If it does not, try the uninstall suggestion above. If that fails, reinstall the version that you linked. It is usually the latest.
Licensing is the way to go, and updates are free for six-months from the purchase date. If problems arise, users here - just like you - try to help, and confirmed bugs are quickly addressed.