Hollow Zn2SnO4 boxes@C/graphene ternary composites with a three-dimensional triple buffering structure are prepared by two hydrothermal processes followed by a calcined process. The structure, morphology and electrochemical properties of the ternary composites were investigated by means of XRD, FTIR, Raman, BET, BJH, SEM, TEM, and electrochemical measurements. The hollow Zn2SnO4 boxes are coated with carbon layer and then supported by graphene sheets to form a 3D carbon conductive network. Compared with the hollow Zn2SnO4 boxes@graphene binary composites, the hollow Zn2SnO4 boxes@C binary composites, the hollow Zn2SnO4 boxes and the solid Zn2SnO4 cubes, the hollow Zn2SnO4 boxes@C/graphene ternary composites show an enhanced electrochemical performance (726.9 mAh g(-1) at a current density of 300 mA g(-1) after 50 cycles) and high rate capability. With the unique structure design, this kind of composites with excellent electrochemical properties can be a promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.