In this study, to investigate effects of tin addition on the microstructures and corrosion properties, Zn-1Mg-xSn (x = 1.0, 2.0 and 5.0 wt.%) ternary zinc alloys were prepared. The experimental results indicated that the Zn-1Mg-2.0 wt.% Sn alloy has the better mechanical properties compared with pure zinc and Zn-1Mg alloy. The tensile strength of the alloy material is 173.2±3.7 MPa, the yield strength is 120.7±2.4 MPa, the elongation is 5.64±0.08% and the hardness is 76.9±0.8 HV. The average degradation rate of the alloys immersion in SBF solution for 60 days is 0.16±0.03 mm/year, and the Zn-1Mg-2.0 wt.% Sn alloy hemolysis rate is only 0.81±0.02%. It is confirmed that the addition of tin is effective to improve the mechanical properties and degradation of Zn-1Mg alloy. It may be a candidate of the clinical application requirements of the degradable implant materials in orthopedics.