This review article discusses the advancements in optical modulators based on two-dimensional (2D) layered materials, including graphene, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), and black phosphorus. The authors highlight the unique properties of these materials, such as broad operation bandwidth, fast modulation speed, and low energy consumption, which make them promising for various applications in photonics and optoelectronics. The review covers recent progress in all-optical, electro-optic, and thermo-optic modulators, as well as hybrid structures like 2D heterostructures, plasmonic structures, and silicon/fiber integrated devices. The authors also explore future perspectives, including the potential of magneto-optic and acousto-optic modulation using 2D materials. The review emphasizes the importance of 2D materials in addressing the challenges of compact, efficient, and broadband optical modulators, particularly in the context of high-speed data transmission and emerging applications such as visible wireless communication and mid-IR/THz bio-sensing.This review article discusses the advancements in optical modulators based on two-dimensional (2D) layered materials, including graphene, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), and black phosphorus. The authors highlight the unique properties of these materials, such as broad operation bandwidth, fast modulation speed, and low energy consumption, which make them promising for various applications in photonics and optoelectronics. The review covers recent progress in all-optical, electro-optic, and thermo-optic modulators, as well as hybrid structures like 2D heterostructures, plasmonic structures, and silicon/fiber integrated devices. The authors also explore future perspectives, including the potential of magneto-optic and acousto-optic modulation using 2D materials. The review emphasizes the importance of 2D materials in addressing the challenges of compact, efficient, and broadband optical modulators, particularly in the context of high-speed data transmission and emerging applications such as visible wireless communication and mid-IR/THz bio-sensing.