In this study, field emission characteristics of two carbon based nanomaterials, carbon nanotips and chromium carbide capped carbon nanotips, were discussed. Both of these materials were synthesized by bias-assisted microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition with hydrogen and methane as reactants. Ultra-sharpness of the carbon nanotips and the composite structure of chromium carbide capped carbon nanotips have shown unique structural and electrical properties. I-V measurements were carried out to investigate the field emission characteristics. The chromium carbide capped carbon nanotips showed superior field emission stability compared to carbon nanotips under constant current emission. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.