The datasets correspond to lists of retrieved papers from bibliographic databases presented in the paper Benchmarking and Trends around In-Situ and Ex-Situ Sensors in Bioreactors. This paper benchmarks bioreactor instrumentation and describes its relationship to critical biotic variables, exploring sensor technologies, control loops, and the integration of Industry 4.0 technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). Out of 28,200 papers retrieved in the bibliographic search, the most relevant ones were extracted and classified, resulting in a working database of 89 articles from which 130 instruments were analysed and referenced. This benchmark highlights significant advancements in Bioindustry 4.0, particularly trends surrounding in-situ and ex-situ sensors. Six major trends were identified, including the adoption of Process Analytical Technology (PAT) nomenclature, the growing use of optical and integrative instruments for real-time data, the vital role of soft sensors in estimating unmeasured variables, and the integration of AI into bioprocess monitoring and control. While these developments point to a shift towards a more automated and adaptable biotechnology landscape, challenges such as data processing and scaling sensor technologies remain. In summary, this research provides a comprehensive perspective on the evolution of bioprocess instrumentation and emphasises the importance of emerging technologies in driving a faster, simpler, more sustainable, integrated, smarter, and more efficient bioindustry.