MnO/C nanocomposites for high capacity lithium-ion batteries were prepared through a simple thermal decomposition of manganese benzoate precursor at 500 degrees C under air atmosphere. The obtained nanocomposites exhibited a reversible capacity greater than 680 mAh g(-1) at the 50th cycle as well as a rate capability of 196 mAh g(-1) at a current density of 1600 mA g(-1). It was revealed that carbon content plays an important role in the electrochemical performance of MnO/C composites, and a content of 10.2 wt % is desirable for high reversible capacity and high rate capability. Owing to their excellent electrochemical properties and easy fabrication, these MnO/C composites might be promising high capacity anode materials for lithium-ion batteries. (C) 2010 The Electrochemical Society. [DOI: 10.1149/1.3465312] All rights reserved.