This paper encompasses a detailed review of state-of-the-art swarm-based algorithms with a focus on their applications along with a discussion on the merits and limitations of each algorithm. Further, a recently developed Advanced Particle Swarm Optimization (APSO) algorithm was compared with the different state-of-the-art-swarmbased algorithms through solving an electromagnetic inverse problem. Results showed that the APSO algorithm has outperformed the other algorithms. This research provides a scientific guideline for the comparison of different swarmbased algorithms and their utilization regarding specific applications.