With the wide application of Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in consumer electronics, energy storage systems and electric vehicles, improving the energy density, cycle stability and safety of the batteries has become a key direction of research. Alloy anodes have become a strong candidate for anode materials for LIBs due to their high theoretical capacity and better electrochemical performance. However, alloy anodes face challenges such as volume expansion, structural instability, and degradation of cycling performance in practical applications. This paper systematically reviews the research progress of alloy anodes for LIBs, firstly introduces the lithium-ion reaction mechanism of alloy anodes, analyzes the classification and properties of different alloy anodes, and then focuses on the current major design strategies of alloy anodes, including nano- and microstructure tuning, coating and surface modification, structural tuning, and composite material applications. Finally, the future development direction of alloy anodes is envisioned, aiming to provide theoretical guidance and technical support for the optimized design of anode materials for LIBs.