<p>Zinc ferrite (ZnFe₂O₄) has attracted considerable attention as a negative electrode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to its low cost, environmental friendliness, low toxicity, chemical stability, and especially high theoretical specific capacity (1072 mAh g⁻¹). However, its poor electrical conductivity, low rate capability, and large volume change due to the Li⁺ uptake and release restrict its practical application. To overcome these limitations, this review has investigated recent advances in improving the electrochemical performance of ZnFe₂O₄ as a negative electrode material from several aspects: Design and optimization of specific morphologies, ion doping, composite formation with carbon-based materials, and fabrication of heterostructures. This study shows that different methods and synthesis conditions, such as calcination temperature and additives, affect the morphology of ZnFe₂O₄ nanostructures. The morphology of electrode materials affects various factors such as porosity, diffusion pathway, surface area, and interfacial contact area, and consequently affects the electrochemical performance of LIBs.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>