Transition metal carbides of early transition metals attracted considerable attention as catalysts because of their availability with high specific areas and surface cleanness. Their refractory properties render them resistance against attrition and sintering under reaction conditions. They are catalytically active in many reactions, particularly those involving hydrogen transfer such as hydrotreating (hydrodesulfurization, hydrodenitrogenation, and hydrodeoxygenation), hydrogenation, dehydrogenation, isomerization, hydrogenolysis, reforming, and aromatization. Recently, they are also receiving attention as electrocatalysis. In many of these reactions, metal carbides behave like group 8–10 metals (Pt, Pd, Rh, Ru, etc) of high cost and limited supply and have potential to replace them. Structure, bonding, synthesis, and surface reactivity of transition metal carbides are discussed.