My husband and I got TSA Pre √ a few years ago and have found it to be beneficial. Is Global Entry worth pursuing?
It may depend how much you travel. And keep in mind some credit cards (such as some Amex cards) will reimburse the ~$100 Global Entry fee.
Pros:
1) It allows you to "Fast Pass" past the line to US Passport control. Every once in a while there's a surprisingly long Global Entry line, but that's unusual. If you've checked luggage, you'll probably get through Passport Control so quickly, you'll be waiting at the carousel for your bags. So, while it eliminates waiting in line, sometimes you still have to wait for bags.
2) It allows you to "Fast Pass" past customs. Every once in a while, after you collect luggage in the US, there are still long lines to get through Customs. Houston (IAH) often has surprisingly long custom lines. IAH always has a Global Entry line to skip past it.
3) GE gives you a Known Traveler ID. With it, I've always gotten Pre-Check including domestic flights. But as you probably know, you have to be sure the Known Traveler ID is included on your reservation.
4) Because you can get through Passport Control/Customs faster, sometimes it makes making a tight connection easier (International flight into the US connecting to a domestic flight).
I think it's worth it, even with checked bags, as it's less stressful than waiting in line especially if you're traveling internationally 2-3 times over the next 5 yrs. Keep in mind, it only applies in the US. Doesn't help with passport control lines in Europe.