The dynamic recrystallization (DRX) phenomena occurring in different thermo-mechanical processing (TMP) conditions for various metallic materials are reviewed. Several types of DRX are described: discontinuous dynamic recrystallization (DDRX), continuous dynamic recrystallization (CDRX) and geometric dynamic recrystallization (GDRX). The terminologies used in this field are summarized, together with the key factors influencing the DRX processes including stacking fault energy, initial grain size, TMP conditions and second-phase particles. Both standard and advanced experimental techniques used to characterize DRX processes are examined. The focus is placed on the mechanisms of these three types of DRX, and the related numerical models.