This review discusses the rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2, focusing on three categories: rapid nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), rapid immunoassay tests, and biosensors. The article highlights the importance of nanomaterials in enhancing the performance of biosensors for rapid, sensitive, and low-cost diagnostics. It reviews the detection principles, fabrication techniques, and applications of these methods, emphasizing the role of nanomaterials such as gold nanoparticles and carbon-based materials. The review also explores the development of portable and low-cost biosensors, including electrochemical and optical biosensors, and their potential for widespread use in hospitals, clinics, and laboratories. The article concludes by discussing the future perspectives and challenges in rapid SARS-CoV-2 detection, emphasizing the need for further research to improve sensitivity, stability, and commercial viability.This review discusses the rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2, focusing on three categories: rapid nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), rapid immunoassay tests, and biosensors. The article highlights the importance of nanomaterials in enhancing the performance of biosensors for rapid, sensitive, and low-cost diagnostics. It reviews the detection principles, fabrication techniques, and applications of these methods, emphasizing the role of nanomaterials such as gold nanoparticles and carbon-based materials. The review also explores the development of portable and low-cost biosensors, including electrochemical and optical biosensors, and their potential for widespread use in hospitals, clinics, and laboratories. The article concludes by discussing the future perspectives and challenges in rapid SARS-CoV-2 detection, emphasizing the need for further research to improve sensitivity, stability, and commercial viability.