Pherical LiNi_1/3Co_1/3Mn_1/3O₂ particles were successfully synthesized by spray pyrolysis for use as cathode material. The effects of chemical composition on the powder characteristics and rechargeable properties of this material were investigated. Chemical and physical properties were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and inductively coupled plasma (ICP). XRD revealed that the crystalline phases of the layered structure were obtained upon calcination at 800°C. The chemical composition of the LiNi_1/3Co_1/3Mn_1/3O₂ cathode material was in good agreement with the molar ratios of the metal components in the starting solutions. The difference in chemical composition affected the rechargeable capacity and cycle stability. Li_1.2Ni_0.175Co_0.1Mn_0.525O₂ cathode material has, in comparison, high rechargeable capacity and cycle stability. The first rechargeable capacity of the Li_1.2Ni_0.175Co_0.1Mn_0.525O₂ cathode material is approximately 197 mAh/g at the rate of 1 C and its discharge capacity retention rate is 69% at the rate of 1 C after 30 cycles.