Recent advances in Zn-ion batteries (ZIBs) have been reviewed, focusing on cathode materials and their reaction mechanisms. ZIBs are promising for large-scale energy storage due to their low cost, high safety, and eco-efficiency. However, developing suitable cathode materials for Zn ion intercalation remains a challenge. The review summarizes various Mn-based cathode materials, including different MnO₂ structures such as γ-MnO₂, α-MnO₂, todorokite-type MnO₂, δ-MnO₂, and spinel-type MnO₂, and discusses their electrochemical performance and reaction mechanisms. These materials exhibit different capacities and rate performances, with some showing reversible Zn²+ insertion/extraction. Additionally, V-based cathode materials, such as V₂O₅ and MₓV₂O₅, are also explored, with their structures and intercalation mechanisms analyzed. The review highlights the importance of structural water in facilitating Zn²+ insertion/extraction and improving electrochemical performance. Overall, the study provides insights into the development of efficient cathode materials for ZIBs, aiming to enhance their practical applications.Recent advances in Zn-ion batteries (ZIBs) have been reviewed, focusing on cathode materials and their reaction mechanisms. ZIBs are promising for large-scale energy storage due to their low cost, high safety, and eco-efficiency. However, developing suitable cathode materials for Zn ion intercalation remains a challenge. The review summarizes various Mn-based cathode materials, including different MnO₂ structures such as γ-MnO₂, α-MnO₂, todorokite-type MnO₂, δ-MnO₂, and spinel-type MnO₂, and discusses their electrochemical performance and reaction mechanisms. These materials exhibit different capacities and rate performances, with some showing reversible Zn²+ insertion/extraction. Additionally, V-based cathode materials, such as V₂O₅ and MₓV₂O₅, are also explored, with their structures and intercalation mechanisms analyzed. The review highlights the importance of structural water in facilitating Zn²+ insertion/extraction and improving electrochemical performance. Overall, the study provides insights into the development of efficient cathode materials for ZIBs, aiming to enhance their practical applications.