There are many types of pipeline coatings that have been used on pipelines around the world. Some are no longer used for various reasons but new ones are being developed to meet the demands of the changing environments in which pipelines are being used. The most significant test and evaluation for any coating is actual field data after several years of service. This paper will compare generic types of field applied coatings by discussing the advantages and disadvantages of each type to give the end users criteria for selection such coating systems. The types of field applied coatings that will be discussed are two part epoxies mesh backed tapes solid film backed tapes shrink sleeves Fusion Bonded Epoxy (FBE) and visco-elastic tapes.