ZnO thin films have been deposited on SnO2:F coated transparent conducting oxide (TCO) glass substrates, using a simple electrochemical (galvanic) technique, from different electrolytic solutions. A detailed investigation on the effect of different solute and solvent on the deposition process has been made. We have established that galvanically obtained ZnO thin films can be deposited with various morphologies depending on the nature of the solute and solvent used. ZnO formation can happen either directly or through an intermediate mixed phase following different reaction paths. Structural, morphological, compositional and optical characterizations of the films developed under different conditions were carried out to study such effects. The films were also tested for their potential use as methane sensor. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.