Abstract The rapid advancement in highway building has rendered classic emulsion asphalt insufficient to meet the strict demands of modern asphalt pavement applications. Consequently, modified emulsion asphalts have emerged as a pivotal focus in emulsion asphalt research. This study elucidates the modification mechanisms employed by various modifiers on emulsion asphalt, thoroughly investigates and systematically organizes the preparation procedures and fundamental properties of each modified emulsion asphalt, and culminates in a comprehensive summary of its practical application scenarios. Based on an extensive literature review, this study presents optimal modification methodologies and preparation schemes for various types of modified emulsion asphalt, establishes specific usage scenarios, and offers theoretical guidance to enhance its performance and expand its scope of application.