In this paper, a series of MFe2O4 (M=Mg, Co, Ni, Zn) hollow spheres are successfully prepared by hydrothermal treatment of the mixed solution of glucose. Fe3+ and M2+ and a subsequent calcination process. After the calcination process, the carbon core of the hydrothermally prepared composite carbon spheres was removed and the metal components were transformed to pure phase ferrites. The final products (ferrite hollow spheres) were characterized using X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy and the magnetic properties were evaluated using a SQUID magnetometer. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.