I went to Universal and my daughter had a grand time! We stayed at Royal Pacific and had front of the line, early entry and a lovely room.
However, there was little to nothing for me to do. I'm older and don't do intense motion rides. I did enjoy some things but other than the Harry Potter theming, it wasn't my cup of tea.
We ate at many of the food venues and they were all okay. Nothing I'm dying to repeat.
I did find that the team members at Universal were all very nice and accommodating. Other than Harry Potter, it wasn't crowded.
Since we stayed longer than our original ticket, we upgraded to an AP. I went back on my own on a subsequent trip and had very few experiences - a few shows, a few character meet and greets - sort of and I happened upon the Blues Bros doing their show in the street, and loved it.
Will I go back? Not unless it is part of a trip with others - family or friends - where otherwise I would have to separate from my group. I would go and hang out and hold peoples stuff while they rode the rides....
I agree with your review of US. It has been several years since we have been there and I'm still not ready to go back. We went a couple of years after HP opened and before the 2nd half was added. To me Universal isn't wholesome like WDW, I just don't get the same vibe from Universal as I do for WDW. Just not my cup of tea.