Abstract: Due to the significant differences in physical,chemical and mechanical properties between dissimilar materials,it is prone to weld defects such as oxidation,brittle intermetallic compounds,and severe welding deformation during the welding process. As a kind of solid phase joining technology,friction welding has been widely used in the welding of dissimilar materials because of its low welding temperature,good welding quality and stable welding process. In this paper,the research progresses of friction stir welding,linear friction welding and axial friction welding of dissimilar materials were reviewed from welding processes,mechanical properties and composition analysis,and the lightweight materials such as aluminum alloy,magnesium alloy and titanium alloy were introduced in detail. The prospects for future development was discussed.