Apologies if this has been covered a million times before.....

I'm pretty capable mechanically, but a newbie to VW's, vehicle electronics and fault codes etc in general. Trying to work out what sort of code reader/program I need for a 2005 new beetle.
There is VAG-COM/VCDS, VAG-Tacho, and on ebay a few other fault code readers like VS450, Roadi and VAGSCANNER.
VCDS seems to do everything except cut your lunch (and also the most expensive), and the others are much more limited in their functions.
Is there a thread somewhere here that explains practically which one is good for what?

My immediate need is to work out what has caused the engine check light to come on, and be able reset the fault light after its fixed. I won't be modifying the car in any way, just want to be able to maintain it.

Any help appreciated.

Steve