<p>Metal matrix composites (MMCs) are advanced engineering materials known for their high strength, stiffness, and thermal stability, making them essential for aerospace, automotive, and other high-performance applications. However, the presence of a metal matrix combined with reinforcing elements poses significant challenges for conventional machining. Laser beam machining (LBM) or laser assisted machining (LAM) has emerged as a promising technique for MMCs, offering precise energy delivery, minimal tool wear, and the ability to machine complex geometries. While several studies exist on LBM of individual MMC systems, there is a lack of a systematic and comparative review covering different MMCs, including aluminium, titanium, iron, and magnesium based composites. This review fills that gap by summarizing and critically analyzing all available literature on LBM of MMCs, highlighting differences in machining behaviour, influence of laser parameters, reinforcement types, and resulting microstructural changes. The paper also discusses thermal effects, surface integrity, and defect formation mechanisms, providing insights into optimal process parameters for various MMC systems. Finally, the review identifies knowledge gaps and future research directions, such as parameter optimization for underexplored Fe and Mg based MMCs and the integration of hybrid or ultrashort-pulse laser technologies. By presenting a comprehensive, systematic, and comparative analysis, this review offers practical guidance to researchers and industry practitioners seeking to improve precision, efficiency, and surface quality in the laser machining of MMCs.</p>