Large specific surface area (SSA) carbons have been demonstrated to be effective active materials and conductive substrates for energy storage devices, such as supercapacitors and batteries, due to their designable pore structures and buffering frameworks, as well as excellent electrical conductivity and chemical stability. Recently, tremendous efforts have been made in the design and preparation of large SSA carbons as electrode materials for energy storage devices, which can significantly enhance their capacitance, power and energy density, lifespan, and preeminent safety. In this review, recent advances in the development of large SSA carbons from structures and properties, porous carbon classifications, and preparation strategies to energy storage applications in supercapacitors, lithium-ion batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, and zinc-air batteries are discussed. Finally, current challenges, future research directions, and prospects in the development of large SSA carbons for energy storage applications are highlighted.