Great effort has recently been made to develop unique nanomaterials with superior reflection loss (RL), thin thickness, wide bandwidth and low density to improve their efficiency in electromagnetic (EM) microwave absorption, while maintaining a simple manufacturing process. The use of traditional nanomaterials with magnetic loss or dielectric loss, of course, not only makes the last requirement hard to meet but also restricts the thickness of absorber, and limits mass production. Recently, some promising nanomaterials with excellent conduction loss and polarization loss have been explored which promise to enable unique nanostructures with multiple reflections and interfacial polarization. Herein, we discuss the EM microwave absorption theory. Then, we review recent achievements in manufacturing EM microwave absorption materials, particularly focusing on the unique and key factors in design and control of structures and components. In addition, current challenges are presented, and prospects for future development in this rapidly blossoming field are discussed. Display omitted •Discuss the microwave absorption theory.•Highlight recent achievements in various types of EM microwave absorption materials.•Comment on remaining challenges and provide prospects for further developments in this blossoming field.