Submicron nickel powders were prepared from aqueous solution under hydrothermal condition. The experimental conditions including the types of protective agents, concentration of the solution and the pH were studied in detail. Starting concentration of nickel ion is a dominant factor affecting particle size. It was shown that the subsequent addition of Poly Vinyl Pyrrolidone(PVP) and Sodium Dodecyle Sulfate(SDS) can help to disperse the nickel powder. X-ray diffraction and SEM were employed to characterize the products.