The micro-displacement actuators based on the electrostriction are widely used in precision positioning and machining technology due to the merits of high accuracy, high sensitivity, low hysteresis and easy realization of the micro displacement in a submicron order. The electrostriction refers to a phenomenon that the strain is proportional to the square of electric field (or polarization) in dielectrics, which plays a crucial role in the electromechanical behavior of piezoelectric and ferroelectric materials. With particular emphasis on the sustainable development of environment, the electrostriction in lead-free perovskite ceramics has attracted a lot of attentions. In this review, recent development on the electrostriction was represented, and the design idea of materials with a low strain hysteresis and a large electrostrictive strain was discussed. Several kinds of lead-free electrostrictive ceramics were described, and their advantages and disadvantages were pointed out. Besides, the relationships among the electrostriction, piezoelectric effect and electrocaloric effect were discussed, providing an opportunity for further enhancing the piezoelectric and electrocaloric properties for piezoelectric and ferroelectric ceramics. In addition, the existing problems, challenges, and prospects were put forward to promote the development and practical application of electrostrictive ceramics and relative devices.