The cutting tool coating is essential in the mechanical cutting and grinding process，which can improve the production efficiency and machining quality by extending the service life，reducing wear and tear of tools. In this paper，the current research progress of several cutting tool coatings was reviewed，and the impact of the application of various elements on the type of cutting tool coating was expounded. The performance advantages and disadvantages of various coatings were analyzed，and the advantage and research progress of the application of non-metallic elements，oxidation-resistant coatings，nanocomposite multi-layer coatings，and nanocomposite gradient coatings in cutting tool coating were also discussed. The cutting tool coatings would be more diversified and have high-performance，providing better performance for cutting tools to improve the service efficiency and life of cutting tools.
