ANDS
VAPORESSO GEN MAX & GEN SE – Real Test Results & Expert Review
Product intro and specs
The GEN MAX and GEN SE are VAPORESSO’s latest mods, continuing the brand’s reputation for quality. The GEN series leans toward techy features, while the LUXE line focuses on luxury. This review covers the MAX, a 220W dual-18650 mod, and the SE, an 80W single-18650 mod—both sharing similar features. Each kit includes the new top-airflow iTank T, an upgrade from the iTank 2 in the GEN 200 kit. Let’s see if VAPORESSO keeps up its high-performance trend!
VAPORESSO GEN MAX
The VAPORESSO ARMOUR G is a compact 80W device with a 3000mAh built-in battery. It features a 5mL top-fill pod with top airflow to prevent leaks and supports all GTX coils, including the included 0.6Ω and 0.4Ω mesh coils for mid-wattage RDL vaping.
VAPORESSO GEN SE
The VAPORESSO ARMOUR GS is an 80W device powered by a replaceable 18650 battery (not included). It features a 5mL top-fill pod with top airflow to prevent leaks and supports GTX coils, including the 0.15Ω and 0.30Ω mesh coils for RDL and DL vaping.
Specifications
- Size: 141.4 x 49.7 x 28.5 mm (with tank)
- Weight: 196g / 205g (with batteries)
- 0.96” TFT Color Display
- *Output Wattage: 5-220W
- Output Modes: F(t)/Pulse/ECO/VV
- Battery: External Dual 18650
- USB-C Port (2A charging)
Specifications
- Size: 141.4 x 35.6 x 26 mm (with tank)
- Weight: 161g / 124g (with battery)
- 0.96” TFT Color Display
- Output Wattage: 5-80W
- Output Modes: F(t)/Pulse/ECO/VV
- Battery: External Single 21700/18650
- USB-C Port (2A charging)
- Size: 141.4 x 35.6 x 26 mm (with tank)
- Weight: 161g / 124g (with battery)
- 0.96” TFT Color Display
- Output Wattage: 5-80W
- Output Modes: F(t)/Pulse/ECO/VV
- Battery: External Single 21700/18650
- USB-C Port (2A charging)
Kit contents
- VAPORESSO GEN MAX Mod
- VAPORESSO iTank T
- 1 x GTi 0.2Ω Mesh Coil
- 1 x GTi 0.4Ω Mesh Coil
- Extra Glass Tube
- 2 x O-ring
- Refilling Silicone Plug
- Type-C Cable
Kit contents
- VAPORESSO GEN SE Mod
- VAPORESSO iTank T
- 1 x GTi 0.2Ω Mesh Coil
- 1 x GTi 0.4Ω Mesh Coil
- Extra Glass Tube
- Tank Protective Cover
- 2 x O-ring
- Refilling Silicone Plug
- Type-C Cable
First impressions
The GEN mods have always stood out for their feel, and while the GEN MAX and SE lack the original rubberized coating, they feature a unique texture that’s comfortable to hold. The MAX is compact for a dual-battery mod, while the SE is as small as a pod mod. Both have vibrant colors, with the MAX’s trim adding a classy touch—though it’s only on the Storm Blue version. Overall, their design and feel left a strong impression.
Build quality and design
The GEN MAX combines simplicity and class with a symmetrical design, centered 510 pin, and a bright 0.96-inch color screen. It features unique one-button functionality with a rotating dial instead of up/down buttons, giving it an intuitive feel. The magnetic battery door fits securely with added safety features, and a lock slider prevents misfires. The GEN SE is nearly identical but uses standard power and adjustment buttons.
Both mods come in vibrant colors—Storm Blue (MAX) and Hot Pink (SE)—with well-built frames that resist fingerprints. The 510 pins work flawlessly, and there’s no button rattle. As expected, VAPORESSO delivers excellent build quality.
Using the GEN MAX & GEN SE mods
The GEN MAX and SE operate like standard mods. The MAX features a fire button with a built-in dial, while the SE has a fire button with up/down buttons. Both include a lock slider for quick locking. Basic operations are as follows:
- Five clicks of the fire button to turn the mod on and off
- Three clicks to enter the menu
- Use up and down to navigate the menus and fire to accept
The menu includes modes, lock settings, puff counter reset, theme options, brightness, and a Smart feature toggle.
Features and functions
The GEN MAX and GEN SE run on the Axon chip with the same features, differing only in power limits due to battery configurations. They offer three power modes—Eco, Fit, and Pulse—though I prefer a simple Power mode with adjustable preheats. Eco mode is the default and the one I used most.
Smart mode suggests wattage based on coil resistance, great for beginners. The mod also includes Variable Voltage (VV), though it’s rarely used today. There are three screen themes (blue, orange, and purple) and optional side LEDs. No temp control mode, which makes sense as the market has shifted toward simpler devices.
Five clicks turn the device on and off.
Three clicks take you to the main menu.
Smart mode is a standout feature, automatically adjusting wattage to prevent coil burnout—just reinsert the pod to reset it.
The devices come with two pod types: MTL (included with the G) and DL (included with the GS), both interchangeable and compatible with GTX coils. Higher resistance coils (0.8Ω, 1.2Ω) work best with MTL pods, while lower resistance (0.15Ω–0.4Ω) suit DL pods.
iTank T tank rundown
The included iTank T sub-ohm tank features top airflow, reducing the risk of leaks. It uses the GTi coil system with 0.2-ohm and 0.4-ohm coils. Both kits come with a 3 mL glass and a 6 mL bubble glass, with the MAX pre-installed with the bubble glass and the SE with the 3 mL.
Filling is easy with a large hole and rubber gasket for fine-tipped bottles. The coils are plug-n-play, but replacing them requires unscrewing the base. It’s easier with a tool like a flathead screwdriver, as the coils can be tough to grip, especially with some juice left in the tank.
- GTi 0.15 ohm (rated 75-90 watts, best 85 watts)
- GTi 0.2 ohm (rated 60-75 watts, best 65 watts)
- GTi 0.4 ohm (rated 50-60 watts, best 55 watts)
- GTi 0.5 ohm (rated 30-40 watts, Best 35 watts)
The included 0.2-ohm and 0.4-ohm coils perform well for premade coils. While top airflow sacrifices some flavor, it offers better leak protection compared to the bottom airflow in previous iTanks. Both coils deliver good flavor and long-lasting performance. I found the 0.2-ohm coil performs best around 70 watts, and the 0.4-ohm around 60 watts. Overall, the tank falls into the “just okay” category, which is better than most tanks included in kits.
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
CONCLUSION
Both the GEN MAX and SE live up to the GEN name with solid performance. The choice comes down to size and battery preference—either way, you can’t go wrong. The build quality, design, and easy-to-use menu are all impressive.
The included tank is decent but not exceptional. It sacrifices some flavor for leak-proof top airflow, which is great for beginners. While you might prefer purchasing a separate tank, this one works as a first tank or a backup sub-ohm
To browse through our instagram , click here
