To improve the thermodynamic and kinetic properties of Mg-based H 2 storage materials, various investigations have been conducted. In this review, we concentrate on the thermodynamic and kinetic fundamentals of hydriding and dehydriding reactions, and discuss the advanced methodologies employed for improving the properties of Mg-based hydrogen storage materials. In particular, the significance of nanosize effect, alloying and composite structure on improving the thermodynamic properties is elucidated. The influence of catalytic, surface treatment, and nano-sizing on kinetic performances are also discussed. Subsequently, the remaining challenges in developing novel Mg-based hydrogen storage materials are summarized. It is expected that our endeavor in this review can inspire more new ideas to expedite the development in related fields and beyond.