The rapid progress of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) and alkaline exchange membrane fuel cells (AMFCs) has boosted the hydrogen economy concept via diverse energy applications in the past decades. For a holistic understanding of the development status of PEMFCs and AMFCs, recent advancements in electrocatalyst design and catalyst layer optimization, along with cell performance in terms of activity and durability in PEMFCs and AMFCs, are summarized here. The activity, stability, and fuel cell performance of different types of electrocatalysts for both oxygen reduction reaction and hydrogen oxidation reaction are discussed and compared. Research directions on the further development of active, stable, and low‐cost electrocatalysts to meet the ultimate commercialization of PEMFCs and AMFCs are also discussed. The development of fuel cells is of great significance for achieving a sustainable society. Recent progress in cathodic electrocatalysts for proton exchange membrane fuel cells and anodic and cathodic electrocatalysts for alkaline exchange membrane fuel cells is summarized. The rational design strategies, structure evolution, activities, fuel cell performance, and durability of noble‐metal‐ and non‐noble‐metal‐based electrocatalysts are discussed.