The most popular thread in our forum is TWOV: China 24, 72, and 144 hour Transit Without Visa ("TWOV") rules master thread

But, I want to discuss transit visas here:
1. Pretty much everyone is qualified for 24 hour visa free transit in China
2. Most of us can also get 144/72 hour permits for an increasing number of cities
3. I would be insane for a US citizen to apply for a G visa because the cost is the same as all other visas
4. But, #3 doesn't apply to all countries; if you can get a G visa for $20, it is probably better than TWOV (e.g. 1 year validity, 7 day stay limits, and you can move around freely)