Due to the fast progression of technology, the dependence on electronic and electrical devices like axial flux permanent magnet machines (AFPMMs) has increased greatly, making printed circuit boards (PCBs) crucial components in modern designs. PCBs, made up of numerous ICs connected by copper traces, are essential to current lightweight AFPMMs. This study systematically reviews the role of PCBs in the core design of AFPMMs for both low- and high-power applications, synthesizing research published between 2019 and 2024. Utilizing the PRISMA methodology, 38 articles indexed in IEEE Xplore and Web of Science were analyzed. This review explores advancements in PCB manufacturing, defect mitigation strategies, winding topologies, software tools, optimization algorithms, and the associated losses from varying winding configurations. A structured Boolean search strategy (“Printed Circuit Board” OR “PCB” AND “axial flux permanent magnet machine” OR “AFPM”) guided the literature retrieval process. Articles were meticulously screened using Rayyan software for titles, abstracts, and content, with duplicate removal performed via Mendeley software V2.120.0. The findings demonstrate substantial progress in the design of lightweight AFPMMs that incorporate PCB components, resulting in enhanced power quality and improved electromagnetic performance. Research activity over the past 6 years has shown inconsistent growth, with concentrated trapezoidal windings emerging as the dominant configuration, followed by distributed winding designs. These configurations were particularly applied in single-stator double-rotor (SSDR) coreless AFPM machines, characterized by minimal defects and associated losses and optimized single-layer winding designs utilizing tools such as ANSYS and COMSOL. Additionally, there has been growing interest in double-stator single-rotor (DSSR) and multi-disk configurations, reflecting the potential for alternative designs. These insights underscore the evolving role of PCBs in AFPMM development, highlighting opportunities for integrating advanced optimization methods and innovative configurations to address future technological demands.