Low-dimensional nanomaterials are receiving widespread attention as one ideal material for manufacturing high-performance electronic switches, which play an important role in improving the reliability, working speed and miniaturization of electron devices. This article reviews 16 classes of low-dimensional nanomaterials used to prepare or refine micro-/nanoelectromechanical switches, molecular electrical switches, resistive switches for memory, molecular switches, spin switches and radio frequency switches. By classifying the size difference into zero-dimensional (0D) nanomaterials, one-dimensional (1D) nanomaterials and two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, the effect of nanomaterials on the switching performance and the progress of application in related electronic devices are reviewed. By comparison, we discovered the advantages of low-dimensional nanomaterial-based electronic switches compared to conventional semiconductor switches. Finally, the development direction, challenges and opportunities of low-dimensional nanomaterials for improving electronic device performance are presented, and future research directions are predicted.