With the flexM1 v2 you no longer have to choose between gen1a or gen2–all the convenience of using Android to clone a 4-byte MIFARE Classic 1k with gen1a commands capable of fixing b0rked writes. The implant is slightly wider than an a flexNT so a scalpel install is your best bet. A Proxmark can be used to toggle gen2 functionality. The Flipper can interact with it using gen1a commands.
Huge thanks to @Equipter for writing up some documentation.
the UMC can do everything the M1v2 can do, the only (largely unnoticeable) difference is the m1v2 being less capable than the umc means it doesn’t fall victim to potential timing issues on super low quality cost cutting readers that some UMC (notably only been seen in cards & fobs) have had issues with.
i doubt this would even play into the mifare classic emulation on both as it’s pretty tight.
I’m rather new to the magic stuff so my understanding is limited, wanting to look at the differences between gen1a / gen2 / gen4 and am yet to read the Magic Chip Post.
Well, there’s not likely ever going to be one that can do everything. If you want something for physical access control, these two are good candidates. If you have a lock/system at home that does 4-byte MIFARE Classic 1k, I’d consider the flexM1 v2. If you spend a lot of time in random hotels, the flexUG4 is good. If you want a flex that will be part of your daily life and improve your online security, get an Apex Flex. TBH, if the Apex was around when I bought my first implant, it would have been my first implant purchase.
Thanks for the insight. Still researching but will most likely go with the UG4.
Having my NExT installed tomorrow (v excited) and am going to ask if they’re comfortable doing the scalpel procedure for the flex as well… limited options in Australia.
Why the Apex Flex > flexSecure? I have a work-issued FIPS token so not sure if I’ll be making this switch anytime soon but any FIPS specific reference material you’d recommend?
With the flexUG4 or Apex Flex (or any similar narrow flex), you won’t need a scalpel. It comes with a sterilized 4g piercing needle.
Apex Flex is easier to use (it has some apps that handle installing and managing applets) whereas the flexSecure is managed with command line tools. You can also brick it if you’re not careful. But, it does have more storage available and you have full control over it. The Apex Flex works with the Fidesmo platform and comes with a (not enabled) payment app.
Edit: What kind of token? There are some open source applets out there that could (not sure if anyone has) be deployed to the flexSecure, such as PIV.
I don’t know about easier. I liked the needle as it was easier for me (I had a friend do the stabbing for me) and it heals much quicker and required no stitches. Plus it comes with the Flex so there was no need to make appointments etc, just “grab and stab”, although I do recommend marking the install location so it is long enough to take the implant with at least 3mm from end of implant to the insertion point.
I’d prefer P4-P5 ish area (slightly above the knife edge as recommended by here) hence I was thinking scalpel but not knowledgeable enough to know if this is viable for me right now. Alternatively, the forearm (see example image here) with the needle.
I put the xM1 there (P4-5) using the needle. It went a bit deep so doesn’t read on every reader unfortunately. Although that could also simply be a feature of a glassie. A flex should work much better.
And I have the apex in the forearm. It’s a great location and I feel the chip is really safe there.