The layered LiNi1/3CO1/3Mn1/3-xMg(x)O2 (x = 0, 0.01, 0.03, 0.05) cathode materials were prepared by solid state reaction, then copper oxide was coated on the product. The structures, morphologies and electrochemical properties of the LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3-xMg(x)O2 and CuO-coated LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3-xMg(x)O2 were characterized by X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and electrochemical tests. The results showed that the electrochemistry properties and cycle performance of magnesium doped LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 and CuO-coated LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3-xMg(x)O2 materials were improved. The optimal doping content of Mg was x = 0.03 in the LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3-xMg(x)O2 samples to achieve high discharge capacity and good cyclic stability, and the first discharge special capacity was 158.5 mAh/g at 0.2 C in the voltage of 2.5-4.3 V, then CuO-coated LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3-0.03Mg0.03O2 was investigated. The electrode reaction reversibility and electronic conductivity were enhanced through Mg-doped and CuO-coated.