To research potential replacements for LiMn 2 O 4 , this work carries out a synthesis of ZnMn 2 O 4 (ZMO) through the glycine-nitrate combustion. XRPD validates its phase characterization; electron micro-scopy confirmed the presence of single phase ZMO in the form of curvy and rod-shaped sub-micron sized particles at an average of 113 nm. This work is novel for its electrochemical measurements of ZMO as a cathodic material for alkali-ion batteries, performed by cyclic voltammetry in aqueous solutions of ZnCl 2 and NaNO 3 ranging from 5 to 100 mV s –1 polarization rates, yielding stable capacities for both electrolytes. The highest capacities were obtained for the polarization speed of 5 mV s –1 for both electrolytes. Their cathode capacities were 11.3 and 27.2 mA h g –1 for ZnCl 2 and NaNO 3 , respectively. Concerning Na-ions batteries, the surface storage is the deciding factor due to the adsorption of Na + ions on the λ-MnO 2 phase. Unlike Zn-ions, Na + ions cannot intercalate into the spinel structured materials.