<p>Vanadate-based phosphor compounds have shown promise for various applications because they can serve as both hosts for rare-earth dopants and self-activating phosphors. Numerous industrial applications, including solid-state lighting, gas sensing, catalysis, rechargeable batteries, lasers, and electrochemical devices, use these materials. Precursor choice, synthesis routes, and thermal treatment are all closely related to the physical structure, morphology, and optical properties of the synthesized materials. Therefore, improving synthesis techniques has the potential to result in the production of refined, pure, and improved materials. Moreover, the synthesis procedure's scalability to meet industrial requirements is of paramount importance. In recent years, efforts have been focused on enhancing synthesis routes for superior vanadate-based phosphors, with a strong emphasis on achieving uniform morphology and high crystallinity. The goal is to produce materials capable of sustained and efficient optical emission at high speeds for extended periods. This study outlines the primary synthesis techniques. Among these synthesis methods, some of the highest optical yields are achieved using the sol–gel method and hydrothermal synthesis for vanadate oxides. While the solid-state reaction route is relatively simple with fewer steps, it has challenges in controlling crystallinity and particle size. In contrast, the sol-gel and hydrothermal methods yield more consistency in particle size. After successful synthesis of vanadate phosphors, characterization techniques like x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV–visible and photoluminescence spectroscopy, and UV–visible/near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy are discussed for suitable applications in the field of optoelectronic devices. The review article provides a critical evaluation of the performance of vanadate-based phosphors in practical optoelectronic devices. It bridges the gap between synthesis methods and functional outcomes by presenting real-world applications. This aspect of the review significantly enhances its sensibleness and relevance as a phosphor.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>