We never would have survived Disney without the FastPass (take a number with a time on it, and almost walk onto the ride at the appointed hour) and wondered why everyone didn't do it--since the machines are available throughout the WDW parks. Is the "Universal Express" the same idea, and does it work for all of the popular rides there?
Thanks.

universal express is way better. you are always going to the front of the line when you want not at a appointed time.

andyg is referring to the express access granted on site guests at Universal hotels. The express pass machines work like the fast pass at Disney, but give you a choice between two return times. If you stay on site you just show your room key and go right in the express entrance any time. It's the best perk around. You can also buy express passes which will allow you to just get in the express line any time you want. The passes you buy limit you to one ride on each major attraction with the express option. During busy times the express passes from the machines are gone by the afternoon. If you can manage it, stay at one of the on site hotels and all day express access.

Our experience of the Disney fast passes is fantastic and the Universal pass system is totally chaotic. On a good day the system will work but if you arrive much later than around 10 in the morning then there won't be any passes left. If you're visiting Universal, be prepared to be very, very patient!!

My experience was just the opposite. With the room key fast pass at Universal, it was so easy and we just walked to the head of the line. This was during Easter!

With Disney, we never got to the fastpass in time to use it that day. Test Track at Epcot was gone every time we tried.

My advice is to stay at one of the wonderful on-site hotels at Universal and get automatic express access ALL DAY. There is nothing better! Go to www.disboards.com for advice on getting good prices, etc. Hotel Kingdom has been offering the Universal hotels at pretty good prices.