Flickr Account Upgrade?

Well, since I’ve gotten my new camera, the awesome T1i, I’ve undoubtedly been taking several photos. Now, the dilemma is do I start to dole out the required $24.95 to Flickr for a “Pro: account that lifts the 200 photo limitation and gives me statistical goodies?

Is there better free alternatives? I know the membership fee for Flickr is very reasonable, just not sure if it’s another bill I want to incur. To Pro or not to Pro that is the question…?