Abstract: Research on electrode erosion of switches in high pressure and high current discharges was reviewed. The factors, including electrode materials of switches, discharge condition, which affect electrode erosion of switches were concluded. The characteristics of electrode erosion of switches and surface structure of electrodes after discharges were analyzed. The mechanisms of electrode heating and electrode material removal were also summarized. To extend the lifetime of switches, several measures of decreasing electrode erosion were put forward, such as choosing excellent anti-erosion performance materials, appropriate structure of switches, and optimized discharge condition.