• High-entropy alloys exhibit exceptional mechanical properties due to their multi-principal element composition and unique deformation mechanisms.
• Severe plastic deformation and additive manufacturing are effective routes to refine grain size and enhance strength-ductility synergy in HEAs.
• TWIP and TRIP effects play a crucial role in achieving high work-hardening rates and improved toughness in certain HEA systems.
• Future research should focus on cost-effective production and compositional homogeneity to enable widespread industrial adoption of HEAs.