Overhead transmission lines are a fundamental means of electric energy transmission within power systems, playing a crucial role in supporting national strategies of “West-to-East Power Transmission” and the “Dual Carbon” initiative. As a key component of overhead transmission lines, conductor performance directly influences power transmission capacity. To meet the growing demand for high-quality energy delivery and to adapt to complex outdoor environments, ongoing innovations and optimizations in the material composition and structural design of overhead transmission line conductors have been pursued. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the types, operational parameters, and applications of overhead transmission line conductors both domestically and internationally. It analyzes the technical shortcomings and challenges associated with various conductor types and presents a comparative analysis of domestic and international standards for overhead conductors. Additionally, the paper examines the practical application of different conductor types in domestic transmission line projects. Finally, it summarizes the current status and challenges of overhead transmission line conductors and outlines future technological development directions and trends in this field.