Electrochemical extraction of lithium (ELE), as a green lithium extraction technology, is of great significance to the exploitation of lithium resources in salt lakes and the sustainable development of the new energy industry. However, the low efficiency and competition of impurity ions limit its large-scale application. In this paper, the current research progress is reviewed from the viewpoint of reaction tank design, electrode material modification, reaction tank process parameter optimization and multi-technology coupling. Additionally, through in-depth research and exploration of these key issues, it is expected to improve the efficiency of electrochemical lithium extraction, reduce energy costs, and promote the practical application and popularization of lithium extraction technology in salt lakes. Finally, this paper discussed the existing challenges and outlooks to improve the performance of ELE, meeting the rising global demand for lithium sources.