Metal ion based hybrid capacitors (HCs) with a series of superiorities, such as exceptional electrochemical properties, cost-effective, safety and environmental benignity have come to the foreground in recent years. It is one of the indispensable energy storage systems that can not only hold high energy density and high power density simultaneously but also connect batteries and supercapacitors, thereby satisfying the energy storage needs of future multifunctional electronic devices. In this review, after a detailed introduction of the advanced electrode materials classified into battery-type and capacitive-type materials, the application of aqueous and non-aqueous electrolytes (organic electrolytes and ionic liquid electrolytes) were described sequentially as well. Furthermore, we addressed the recent advances on metal ion (Li, Na, K, Zn and Mg) - based HCs from the aspects of components, energy storage and conversion mechanism, selection and optimization of electrode materials and electrolytes as well as electrochemical performance evaluation and potential application. It can further comprehend the impact of key materials of metal ion based HCs on electrochemical performance, thus securing major advances in energy storage. Eventually, the principal challenges and future research prospects toward the metal ion based HCs were illustrated. A state-of-the-art review of metal ion (Li, Na, K, Zn and Mg) based hybrid capacitors with a special focus on materials, electrolytes and systems applications is highlighted. Ion storage mechanisms and optimization methods of different types of electrode materials (anode and cathode) are delineated, and the introduction and selection of electrolytes are elucidated. Recent researches on the developments of LIHC, SIHC, PIHC, ZIHC and MIHC are reviewed. The applications of these metal ion based HCs in diverse fields are illustrated. The advancements, challenges, and prospects of the electrode materials, electrolytes and applications of metal ion based HCs are discussed. • Metal ion (Li, Na, K, Zn and Mg)-based HCs are prominent energy storage devices. • Selection and optimization of electrodes and electrolytes are reviewed. • Ion storage mechanism, configuration and electrochemical properties are outlined. • Strategies and prospects of metal ion based HCs are summarized.