Zn–Sn–Al-hydrotalcites (LDHs) have been successfully prepared by hydrothermal method and applied as a novel anodic active material in Zn–Ni secondary batteries. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and FT-IR tests are performed to investigate the morphology and microstructure of Zn–Sn–Al-hydrotalcites. Electrochemical performances of Zn–Sn–Al-hydrotalcites with different Zn/Sn/Al molar ratios are investigated through galvanostatic charge–discharge measurements, cyclic voltammograms (CV) and Tafel polarization curves. Compared with Zn–Al–LDH without Sn addition, Zn–Sn–Al–LDHs still present hexagon layer structure, and present more excellent electrochemical performance. And Zn–Sn–Al–LDH with the molar ratio of 2.8:0.2:1 shows a better cycle stability than the other samples. The results demonstrate that Sn addition can help to perfect the electrochemical performance of zinc electrode with Zn–Sn–Al–LDHs. At the same time, CV tests indicate well reversibility and Tafel curves reveal more positive corrosion potential for Zn–Sn–Al–LDHs.