Amidst environmental pollution and the energy crisis, photocatalytic technology has emerged as a potent tool for promoting clean energy and environmental preservation. However, the promotion and widespread adoption of photocatalysis encounter the formidable challenge of synthesizing high-quality photocatalysts in a cost-effective and expedited manner. Thus, we have compiled an analysis elucidating the efficacy and heating mechanisms of microwaves, validating their superiority as a heat source. Furthermore, this review presents a comprehensive overview of microwave-assisted synthesis techniques for photocatalysts, marking the inaugural attempt to do so, and extensively discusses the merits of diverse microwave-based preparation methodologies. Moreover, we systematically examine approaches for modifying photocatalysts using microwave-assisted methods, providing insights into their pivotal role in photocatalyst enhancement. We aspire that this review will serve as a seminal reference, facilitating the judicious application of microwave-assisted synthesis techniques for the controlled and efficient production of photocatalysts, thereby advancing the dissemination and adoption of photocatalysis.