Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs) with films (photoelectrodes) of ZnO nanopowders and nanorods were constructed and investigated. Films having different thicknesses were fabricated by an electrophoretic deposition technique (EPD) and sensitized using different concentrations of a N719 dye solution. Adsorption isotherms for this dye were obtained and showed different behaviors depending upon whether the adsorbent was nanopowders or nanorods. The DSCs were characterized by linear sweep voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The photo-electrochemical performance of these DSCs was measured and cell performance depended on the thickness of films, concentration of dye solution used, and the film structure. The DSC having an electrodeposited film of ZnO nanorods showed a higher efficiency than that containing ZnO nanopowders. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.