This review article compares next-generation sequencing (NGS) systems, including SOLiD, Ion Torrent PGM, Illumina GA/HiSeq, and Roche 454. These systems are widely used in genomic research for DNA sequencing, offering high throughput, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness. The article discusses the technical features, advantages, and applications of each system, as well as their performance in terms of read length, accuracy, and cost. The Roche 454 system is noted for its long read length, the SOLiD system for its high accuracy, and the Illumina HiSeq 2000 for its high throughput and low cost. The article also covers the development of compact sequencers like the Ion PGM and MiSeq, which are suitable for clinical applications and small labs. Additionally, it discusses third-generation sequencing technologies, such as PacBio RS and Nanopore sequencing, which offer long read lengths and real-time signal detection. The article highlights the importance of NGS in various applications, including genome sequencing, transcriptomics, epigenomics, and metagenomics, and emphasizes the role of BGI in advancing genomic research and applications. The review concludes with a discussion of the future of NGS and its potential impact on genomics and biomedicine.This review article compares next-generation sequencing (NGS) systems, including SOLiD, Ion Torrent PGM, Illumina GA/HiSeq, and Roche 454. These systems are widely used in genomic research for DNA sequencing, offering high throughput, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness. The article discusses the technical features, advantages, and applications of each system, as well as their performance in terms of read length, accuracy, and cost. The Roche 454 system is noted for its long read length, the SOLiD system for its high accuracy, and the Illumina HiSeq 2000 for its high throughput and low cost. The article also covers the development of compact sequencers like the Ion PGM and MiSeq, which are suitable for clinical applications and small labs. Additionally, it discusses third-generation sequencing technologies, such as PacBio RS and Nanopore sequencing, which offer long read lengths and real-time signal detection. The article highlights the importance of NGS in various applications, including genome sequencing, transcriptomics, epigenomics, and metagenomics, and emphasizes the role of BGI in advancing genomic research and applications. The review concludes with a discussion of the future of NGS and its potential impact on genomics and biomedicine.