Transition metal oxides are promising anode materials for Li-ion batteries due to their high theoretical capacity (> 600 mAhg^-1), good rate capability, good safety, environmental friendliness and relatively low cost. In recent years, more and more investigators are motivating this advanced material rapidly towards their hybrid materials preparation to improve the cycling performance. Herein, we outlined the current research advances of transition metal oxides and their hybrid materials as anode materials for Li-ion batteries in the synthesis, lithium storage mechanism and electrochemical performance, with the aim of stimulating more research to achieve more useful application as soon as possible.