Understanding of flow characteristics of microchannel heat sink (MCHS) is a prerequisite for its design. Performance optimization via accurate design of manifold zone and subsequent reduction of the flow maldistribution (MLD) remains challenging. This communication critically evaluates the effects of manifold zone related geometrical parameters including inlet-outlet flow arrangement, design and shape on the hydrothermal performance of MCHS in terms of flow mal-distribution. It is demonstrated that split flow strategy has a significant impact on the hydrothermal performance enhancement. I-type flow feed with vertical inlet and outlet reveals improved flow distribution than horizontal supply. Furthermore, the reverse flow arrangement of C-type performs better than parallel flow arrangement of Z-type. It is affirmed that for reduced flow MLD the channel area must be smaller than manifold region. Meanwhile, the enlargement of combining manifold region is discerned to improve the flow uniformity. For I-type manifolds with vertical feeding, the rectangular configuration produces better normal flow distribution. Conversely, for axial feeding, the manifold shape alteration is essential to reduce the incoming jet flow. For Z-type manifolds, symmetrical triangular geometry generates superior flow distribution. In the case of a C-type manifold, both dividing triangular shape as well as combining trapezoidal configuration creates better flow distribution. This informative review article is hoped to serve as taxonomy for navigating and understanding the research advancements towards the manifold zone parameters dependent hydrothermal performance of MCHS. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.