I think pigs are flying, because this safety-obsessed vape reviewer not only tested another mechanical-type mod, but also liked it. The Dovpo M VV intimidated me at first, simply because mechs – and their usual lack of protection and monitoring – never seem worth the worry. But the M VV mod is a little different.

Notice that I’ve described the DOVPO M VV as a “mech-type” mod more than once. That’s because the nice people at Dovpo have given purists the direct voltage output power they crave, while throwing in some important safety measures to keep nervous types at bay. This excited me more than expected.

(My test model also had a slick-looking skull on it. That didn’t suck, either.)

A Quick Mech Refresher Course…

For those unfamiliar with the “mechanical mod” concept, it harkens back to the early days of advanced vaping. Basically, instead of complicated screens and menus, mech mods draw power directly from the batteries, using what they need, based on the resistance of the attached atomizer. This means initially potent draws, but also potentially dangerous ones in the wrong hands…

In contrast, the Dovpo M VV has stable (semi-regulated?) power flow, a standard suite of protection measures, including overcharge, low-voltage and battery balance warnings, to ensure even newcomers can get onboard quickly and safely.

At first glance, the Dovpo M VV looks like a standard dual-18650 vape mod. The sturdy zinc alloy exterior, fairly sizable height and depth, and reassuring weight are all well-done, but are also standard-issue features. It’s plenty attractive (especially with skulls and biomech-type designs throughout) but if you have a GeekVape Aegis (reviewed here) or Lost Vape Paranormal (reviewed here), you’re not gonna drop those mods to show off the M VV.

That said, I really grew attached to the simplistic bare metal aesthetic and loved the way the alloy felt in my hands, in any kind of weather. And again, not to be redundant, but it all feels so sturdy and durable that you’ll likely feel the same, even without the 2-inch display and leather-esque grip.

The main power control comes from a simple, no-nonsense dial. Using a screwdriver or long nail, you can adjust your power according to the resistance of the atomizer you’re connecting. The nicely laid out manual explains the proper settings for each level, and within seconds, I had my DOVPO M VV perfectly set up for my 0.25-ohm coil head.

The dial itself is a highlight – firm and secure, to ensure no random pocket jostling can threaten your vape, or your safety. But it’s also easy to use, and just recessed enough to stay out of the way.

I was a little concerned by the width of the M VV, which only accommodates atomizers up to 24mm. While I didn’t have too many issues with overhang or balance, it seems odd that a mod capable of up to 280 watts doesn’t have the proper width for most of today’s modern tanks and RDAs. A minor gripe, but a gripe all the same.

Finally, the bulletproof 510 connection is near perfect. Flawless machining, smooth threading, nicely spring-loaded pin, and a smart heat-channeling groove handled all my test tanks without a drop of concern.

Let me lead off this section by reiterating that I like the Dovpo M VV – in fact, it’s the only mech (and mech-like) mod in my collection, because I simply don’t prefer this style of vaping. It’s an impressive device that didn’t make me feel insecure during heavy vape sessions.

Moreover, the DOVPO M VV straight up CHUCKS clouds when your cells are fully charged, and the device is set to an appropriate voltage. The manual’s guide was terrific and had me filling my office with vapor within seconds of powering up the mod.

But, because you knew they were coming, there were some ups and downs. For starters, the 4-bulb LED indicator lets you know where your battery power lies, and whether or not there’s an error or misread happening. I mostly liked the simple display, even if I secretly wished for more information. But the lights are clear, bright, and accurate until you reach lower power levels … and that’s where the love ended, because that’s when users need them most.

Unfortunately, once my cells dipped below 40-45% remaining charge, the M VV had a noticeable decline in performance. As a mech-like mod, I expected some diminishing returns as the cells depleted, but I never expected an exponential drop like this.

After removing the cells and checking their remaining power on a charger, I realized the mod should have given me considerably more time before the flavor and vapor suffered. But that wasn’t in the cards – and since there’s no onboard charging port, have spares at the ready, friends. The battery performance itself is quite good. But this was a little off-putting to a guy who likes to head out with as little vape gear as possible.

I was also a little annoyed by the magnetic back battery panel, which stays in place well once lined up, but was surprisingly finicky when trying to attach it, as if the magnets had dead spots that actually resisted the connection. Once locked in, the door stayed put, which is what’s most important. But this was a surprising misstep considering how thoughtful the rest of the design and construction proved to be.

Look, if you like mech mods and want a nice new box for your collection, the Dovpo M VV is a no-brainer. Mech power and performance, with just enough safety to keep everyone safe, the M VV is a nice hybrid type device that can help break down some barriers between vaping styles. It’s not a beginner mod by any means, but if you’re familiar with voltage settings and coil resistances, then there’s nothing here you won’t master in minutes.

More importantly, the M VV just vapes really well. Smooth ramping power, no-nonsense operation and a wonderful build quality make this mech-like mod a winner. It’s far from perfect, but it gets a lot more right than wrong.

Score: B