Bi2O3@ZnO sphere is prepared by solvothermal and proposed as an anode material for Zn-Ni battery, which shows a high discharge specific capacity and cyclic stability. The discharge specific capacity remains at a high level of 608.6 mAh g (1) after cycling 160 cycles at 1 C and the average specific capacity is up to 604.9 mAh g (-1), which is more excellent than pure ZnO. This striking property is attributed to the homogeneous distribution of Bi2O3 in Bi2O3@ZnO sphere, which can improve the modification effects of Bi in the composites, exhibiting a better electrochemical reversibility. (C) 2019 The Electrochemical Society.