• Binders are critical yet often overlooked components that significantly influence the lifespan and performance of lithium-ion battery electrodes.
• The review systematically summarizes optimization strategies for novel binders tailored to LiFePO₄ and transition metal oxide cathode systems, addressing their respective advantages and limitations.
• Future development trends emphasize the challenges and opportunities for binders in enhancing thermal safety and enabling all-solid-state battery systems.
• Innovative binder design is essential for maintaining electrode mechanical integrity, achieving high energy density, and promoting sustainable development of LIBs.