Al 2O 3 ceramic coatings are widely used due to their excellent wear resistance, but comparative studies on the sliding wear mechanisms with typical metal pairing materials are rarely reported. In this study, the frictional behavior of Al 2O 3 coatings against 316L stainless steel, H62 brass, and TC4 titanium alloy were systematically studied using a CSM friction tester. To study of the wear mechanism of different friction parts, a thoroughly comparative analysis was performed via scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution X-ray diffraction and multifunctional X-ray photoelectron spectroscope. The findings reveal significant differences in tribological performance across these friction pair systems. The crystal structure of the friction pair is the basis for determining the intrinsic tribological behavior of the material, the mechanical properties predominantly govern the distribution of contact stresses, while frictional heat induces interfacial chemical reactions that lead to the formation of a friction induced third body, collectively influencing the friction and wear behaviors of the pairs.