The article discusses advancements in separators and membranes for alkaline water electrolysis (AWE), focusing on polymeric diaphragms, ion-solvating membranes (ISM), and anion exchange membranes (AEM). AWE traditionally uses diaphragms with 5–7 M KOH solutions, but polymeric diaphragms are now the standard. ISM and AEM are promising alternatives, with AEMs using 0–1 M KOH solutions. Recent developments show that AEMs can operate with higher KOH concentrations, improving performance and longevity. The article reviews the development of polymeric diaphragms, ISM, and AEM, highlighting their properties, challenges, and potential for future AWE systems. It also discusses key performance indicators, design strategies, and the role of KOH concentration in AEM performance. The review emphasizes the importance of material stability, wettability, and conductivity in achieving efficient AWE systems. The article concludes that AWE and AEM WE may become more similar in the future, with ongoing research aimed at improving separator performance and durability.The article discusses advancements in separators and membranes for alkaline water electrolysis (AWE), focusing on polymeric diaphragms, ion-solvating membranes (ISM), and anion exchange membranes (AEM). AWE traditionally uses diaphragms with 5–7 M KOH solutions, but polymeric diaphragms are now the standard. ISM and AEM are promising alternatives, with AEMs using 0–1 M KOH solutions. Recent developments show that AEMs can operate with higher KOH concentrations, improving performance and longevity. The article reviews the development of polymeric diaphragms, ISM, and AEM, highlighting their properties, challenges, and potential for future AWE systems. It also discusses key performance indicators, design strategies, and the role of KOH concentration in AEM performance. The review emphasizes the importance of material stability, wettability, and conductivity in achieving efficient AWE systems. The article concludes that AWE and AEM WE may become more similar in the future, with ongoing research aimed at improving separator performance and durability.