Image feature detection is a key technique in image processing

pattern recognition

content-based image retrieval

and so on. The typical image feature detectors are analyzed. From the viewpoint of information used

the literatures on image feature detection are analyzed systematically

and image feature detectors can be categorized in to two kinds

that is

gradient-based ones and phase-based ones. Characteristics of each kind are discussed. The key issues of the important image feature detector are explained extensively and comprehensively. Based on the survey

some concerned issues needed further research are presented

and the future research trends are also given.