Metal-organic frameworks have attracted considerable interest with the characterization of rich pore structure, high charge mobility, and adjustable structures, but the electrochemical application is limited given the drawbacks of low electrical conductivity. This review summarizes the development of conductive MOFs (C-MOFs), specifically including the efforts to date in the conductive mechanism, design strategies, synthesis methods, model prediction and theoretical calculation and electrochemical applications. The proton transfer, electron transfer, ion transfer mechanisms and the coupling effect in C-MOFs are profoundly explored. By discussing the regulation strategy of each conductive mechanism, the puzzle of poor conductivity can be solved, and the implementation of C-MOFs in the electrochemical field can be extended. Understanding each conductive mechanism in electrochemistry ensures the desired performance and stability in specific applications. Furthermore, future development trends and outlooks are offered, along with challenges to the research gaps and weaknesses in conductive mechanisms research and electronic/electrochemical applications of C-MOFs.