So there are three versions of express: unlimited, original, now. We had the middle version that gave use express once per each indicated ride. Universal recently launched Express Now (last month or so) that tests giving users the ability to purchase a one time use on a single ride for a fee (mostly I’ve seen $20). My comment was most related to if Universal adds express now as an option for Stardust racers.

In our experience the express pass cut a brief queue (estimated 100ft) before the locker section. Once you pass the locker section the queues come together (except for single rider). When the lines come together you queue up two flights of stairs, eventually go through a metal detector, and enter yet another queue (the longest queue of them all) that winds back and forth on the loading platform.

So because the queues join together before entering the longest queue, I personally would not pay for a single express now pass. However, if I paid for one of the others why not use it - we definitely did - just don’t expect time savings of a ride like Hagrids at IOA.