Straw mulching and incorporation can boost maize yield, water use efficiency, and nitrogen use efficiency. The study analyzed 112 publications to compare the effects of these methods under different conditions. Results show that both straw mulching and incorporation increase maize yield, with mulching having a stronger link to water use efficiency and incorporation to nitrogen use efficiency. Maize yield and water use efficiency rise with straw mulching in dry areas, while incorporation is more beneficial in semi-humid regions. Nitrogen application affects yield and efficiency, with straw incorporation being more effective at lower straw amounts. Different soil textures also play a role, with loam soil showing the best response to straw incorporation. Overall, straw mulching and incorporation have their own benefits and limitations for improving maize production.