The development of multi-component and multiple cropping systems is reviewed, and their comprehensive benefits are critically evaluated. The theories underpinning use of multiple cropping systems have matured, and the approach is widely accepted and practiced because of its potential role in sustainable agriculture. However, research evaluating its comprehensive benefits and optimization of system models are still at an early stage. It is difficult to evaluate the comprehensive benefits because of the complexity and diversity of the ecosystem. Therefore an evaluation indicator system for multi-component and multiple cropping systems was set up according to the principles and methods of ecology and system engineering, and grey relation clustering analysis used to evaluate the comprehensive benefits of multi-component and multiple cropping systems. Finally screening allowed identification of the optimized model, based on orientating experiences with upland red soil at Jiangxi Agricultural University from 1984 to 2004. The results showed that the grey relation degree of “cabbage/potato/ maize_sesame" was highest among 23 multi-component and multiple cropping systems, and corresponded to the optimized system. It provides optimal social, economic and ecological benefits, based upon improved yields and farmers’ income while achieving sustainable development of agricultural production. Therefore its use in future could be beneficially extended on upland red soil over a large scale. The grey relation degree of “canola‖chinese milk vetch/maize/maize‖mung bean" was next best, and is suitable for more extensive use on upland red soil at the outskirts of the city. These two planting patterns should be actively pursued in the adjustment of planting structure and optimization of planting patterns on upland red soil in the future.