Belt-like X-doped VO 2 (M) (X=W, Mo, Sn or Fe) with rectangular cross sections were successfully synthesized by a facile one-pot hydrothermal approach. The as-obtained samples were characterized by XRD, XPS, SEM, DSC and variable-temperature IR. The results showed that the additives W, Mo, Sn and Fe could promote the formation of VO 2 (M) under hydrothermal conditions. The additives had little influence on the morphology of doped VO 2 (M), but they were the key factor for the synthesis of VO 2 (M). The W and Mo atoms could effectively reduce the T c of VO 2 (M), while Sn and Fe atoms had little influence on T c . Furthermore, it was found that the as-obtained doped VO 2 (M) possessed prominent thermochromic properties and optical switching characters.