Abstract: The direct conversion of syngas to lower olefins is one of the most challenging subjects in the field of C1 chemistry; it is considered as a new attractive route for producing lower olefins from non-petroleum resources, owing to its process simplicity and low energy consumption. Bifunctional catalysis using composite catalysts such as OX-ZEO and Fischer-Tropsch to olefins (FTO) reaction are two main pathways for the direct conversion of syngas to lower olefins. In this paper, the recent research progress made in the direct conversion of syngas to lower olefins via these ways was reviewed. The catalysis mechanism for olefins formation, the design and development of novel catalysts, as well as the effect of various additives on the catalyst performance were considered; lastly, an expectation outlook was given on the future trend for the direct conversion of syngas to lower olefins.