Electronically controlled gradient refractive index liquid crystal lens (EC-GRIN-LCL)is an optical lens that can change the distribution of its spatial refractive index to zoom in out by controlling the electric field. Due to the properties of variable focal length, compact structure and excellent stability, it has been attracting intensive attention in the field of optical lenses. This review introduces the basic working principle of EC-GRIN-LCL and describes four types of liquid crystal lenses driving strategies: (1) by edge electric field, (2) by discrete multi-electrode, (3) by electrode with high resistance layer, and (4) by complete electrode layer or no electrode layer. By introducing, concluding and commenting on the representative instances of the four types of EC-GRIN-LCL, this review aims to provide the readers with a clear basic knowledge, a comprehensive development history and tendency, and a reference for further research of EC-GRIN-LCL.