GOLDEN AGE: 1938-1945
This is basically the WW2 era. We all know this version. His powers and costume evolve. Social crusader to fighting evil scientists to patriot.
"IN-BETWEEN YEARS": 1946-1956-8?
This is the transition period. Not a very stable continuity. Superboy was incorporated into continuity during this era. His powers went from being native to all Kryptonians to Earth based. Gains new powers like a limited form of heat vision with his X-ray vision. We learn more about Krypton during this period.
SILVER AGE: 1958-1970?
All the goofy stuff we're familiar with. Superbaby, Superboy, Krypto, Beppo, Fortress of Solitude, Legion of Super-Heroes, Kandor, Supergirl, multiple varieties or Kryptonite, unlimited power level.
BRONZE AGE: 1970s-early 1980s
Basically the SA with more stable continuity. His history is more clearly defined. Certain stories are made official cannon and a scaling back of some of the "sillier" elements of his past.
POST-CRISIS: 1986-2003?
Hard reboot getting rid of all the old elements and history. Scaling down of powers. More "realistic" version. Cold Krypton. Much slower power development. Corporate Lex. Parents still alive.
"IN-FLUX YEARS": 2004-2010?
Post-Birthright era. Unstable history. Neo-SA version trying to incorporate elements of different versions including elements from the movies and TV shows. John's Secret Origin. Pre-Flashpoint universe.
NEW 52: 2011-2016
This one is self explanatory. Post-Flashpoint universe. Hard reboot. Grant Morrison's Action run and new origin. Alien body armor. Neo-GA with powers that evolve. T-shirt and jeans jumping over buildings and flight later. Dated WW.
REBIRTH: 2016-?
Return of pre-Flashpoint version. Married to Lois. Has son who is new Superboy. Replaces New 52 Superman after he is killed. May or may not be "native" to the current universe or connected to the New 52 version. Has some connection to a "Mr. Oz".