Selective laser melting (SLM) is currently the subject of major research studies with the objective to directly manufacture high performance metal alloys and metal matrix composite (MMC) parts by consolidating metal and its composite powders. The successful fabrication of the parts by SLM is related with proper selection of materials and processing parameters to provide sufficient densification and consolidation of the powder materials and generate suitable microstructures and mechanical properties. It is also important to minimize or eliminate typical issues such as porosity,balling effect,and thermal stress associated with the powder melting and consolidation at high temperature conditions during SLM process. This paper presents the fundamental material and process aspects,address the technical issues,and review the recent research development in the SLM of metal and MMCs.