We report the influence of synthesis techniques on the structural and electrochemical behavior of cobalt-free, low-cost and eco-friendly layered type Li1+x (Mn0.4Ni0.4Fe0.2)1−x O2 (0< x <0.4) cathodes for Li-ion batteries. Layered phase, Li1+x (Mn0.4Ni0.4Fe0.2)1−x O2 (0< x <0.4) was prepared by sol–gel, co-precipitation, acetate precipitation and mixed hydroxide method and by subsequent sintering at 700°C under oxygen flow. X-ray diffraction experiments revealed the presence of α-NaFeO2 type structure with R 3 ¯ m space group in the prepared materials. Among the layered phase compounds, material prepared by mixed hydroxide method delivered maximum reversible capacity of 207mAhg−1 at current density of 0.1mAcm−2 between 2 and 4.5V vs. Li with excellent capacity retention characteristics as well. In addition, influence of “x” on electrochemical properties of Li1+x (Mn0.4Ni0.4Fe0.2)1−x O2 (0< x <0.4) were also investigated and such samples were prepared by mixed hydroxide route.