TiAl based alloys are rapidly being developed for elevated temperature applications, due to their high strength, light mass and good oxidation resistance. However, the disadvantages of TiAl based alloys are low ductility and toughness at room temperature, and poor workability. Grain refinement is one of the most effective ways for improving room temperature tensile properties and hot workability of ordered TiAl based alloys. At present, the majority of research works have focused on alloy modifications through compositional controls, alloying additions, thermo mechanical processing and production techniques. This article discusses the research status of TiAl based alloys in the areas of microstructure, alloying, processing and applications. TiAl based alloys are rapidly being developed for elevated temperature applications, due to their high strength, light mass and good oxidation resistance. However, the disadvantages of TiAl based alloys are low ductility and toughness at room temperature, and poor workability. Grain refinement is one of the most effective ways for improving room temperature tensile properties and hot workability of ordered TiAl based alloys. At present, the majority of research works have focused on alloy modifications through compositional controls, alloying additions, thermo mechanical processing and production techniques. the research status of TiAl based alloys in the areas of microstructure, alloying, processing and applications.