"A 21700 cell version of the Solo V1. IMO stunning presence, but disappointingly it has the stainless steel firmware bug☹️"
Cut from the same cloth as the Geekvape Aegis Solo V1, the Max V1 is effectively an upscaled version that can accommodate a larger single 21700 battery. An adaptor is included to enable use of a 18650.
At first sight the user interface & general performance appears almost identical to the Solo V1. However, unlike the Solo, it's affected by the SS firmware bug as described on this page (scroll down to Inaccuracies: Dialled-in vs Actual Wattages). This is the only real flaw that slightly spoils an otherwise top class recommendation.
Conclusion
The presence of the bug is disappointing. I wondered about swapping its board with my oldest Solo, but the charge ports are on opposite sides, so this appears a non-starter. If you can live with this bug then you'll likely love the increased size of the Max, plus the extra capacity of a 21700, but otherwise suggest sticking with the Solo V1.
The Solo V1, Legend V1, & Aegis X are all still widely available from UK vendors for rock bottom prices (~low 20s pounds Nov 2025) so still potentially undeniable bargains.
The Max (right). I suspect many will prefer its bulkier feel over the Solo (left).
Identical to the Solo V1, see this page for a detailed description (scroll down to "Modes of Operation")
Power - Affected by the SS l firmware bug in the same way as the Geekvape Z50 and Thelema Solo Quest, and similar way to the Smok Rigel.
TC-NI, TC-SS, TC-TI, TC-TCR - Temperature controlled modes. Initial testing is suggestiveof a slightly different TC algorithm being used, which is a little less stable & more prone to over-temperature than the Solo V1. I no longer use TC so not an issue for me, but suggest caution if you decide to use it.
VPC - P1 to P5. Identical to Solo V1 providing 1 sec power intervals to 4 secs with the final level (P5) determining the power from 4 seconds onwards (see this video clip)
Bypass - unlikely to be used for Dimitri vaping
Main Differences between the Max V1 & Solo V1
The Max has the SS firmware bug ☹️
The Max takes either a 21700 or 18650 battery (an adaptor is included, see pic). The Solo takes only an 18650
The physical size & weight of the Max is noticeably greater. Buttons and general appearance are also somewhat different, & charge port is on opposite side.
The display on the Max is considerably brighter than the Solo when both are turned up to full intensity (although the display may have faded with use on my Solo)
Curiously, a slightly different text font is used on the TC screens
As is usual with 21700 mods, the Max includes an adaptor to enable a smaller 18650 battery to be used. This is a blind-hollow tube which slides over the +ve end of the battery, which then can be inserted into the mod.
Solo (top) & Max. Charge ports similarly mounted but (bafflingly) on opposite sides
The Max V1 (right) with the Solo V1. Bigger mod with brighter display, very nice all round - except for the SS bug.
I bought mine as a kit so included a Z non-rebuildable tank, which I won't be using.