In recent years, with the development of X-ray source, X-ray monochromatic-focusing and detector technology and calculation methods, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS) is used to obtain better two-dimensional/three-dimensional element spatial distribution characteristics and element morphology and coordination information in the lab and widely applied in geology, environment, biology, materials, medicine, art, cultural heritage and industry. However, more requirements are put forward to analyze spatial element distribution and species characteristics in the lab, such as analyzing unigue samples with complex matrices, obtaining better detection limits and shorter detection time, and higher spatial resolution, etc. Laboratory-type XRF element spatial distribution and imaging technology are divided into focus scanning type 2D/3D XRF element spatial distribution imaging technology (focus scanning 2D/3D XRF), full field-micro X-ray fluorescence (FF-MXRF) and XRF computer Tomography (XRF-CT). The advancement of 2D/3D XRF hardware technology includes: liquid metal jet source and pyroelectric X-ray generator and other new laboratory X-ray source have improved the excitation efficiency closed-loop feedback systems overcome problemes caused by rough sample surfaces. X-ray monochromatic and vacuum systems play an important role in reducing background and light elements interferences. Pn-charge coupled device and micro pore optic have promoted the progress of FF-MXRF; The development of monochromatic focusing systems such as toroidal curved crystal, spherical curved crystal and columnar curved crystal have enabled laboratory XAS technology development. The continuous improvement of calculation methods has greatly promoted laboratory XRF element spatial distribution imaging technology and laboratory XAS technology, especially the development of 2D/3D XRF and XRF-CT. Exploring laboratory X-ray source systems, efficient monochromatic and focusing optical systems, and promoting dynamic X-ray film shooting technology are essential in the future.