The Ben Johns Perseus line has become one of the most recognizable paddle families in pickleball, and the Pro IV represents a meaningful step forward rather than a cosmetic refresh. Built in collaboration with the game’s most dominant player and produced by JOOLA, the Perseus Pro IV leans into modern paddle trends; it’s springy response, high spin potential, and forgiving sweet spots, without abandoning touch and feel.
What makes the Pro IV interesting is the way it challenges old assumptions. Traditionally, paddles with this much pop and power ask you to sacrifice control. Based on extensive feedback from competitive players and early adopters, the Perseus Pro IV flips that script. Players report better resets, more confident dinks, and easier defensive shots than with many softer, more “control-first” paddles.
Available in both 14mm and 16mm thicknesses, the Pro IV caters to a wide range of play styles, from aggressive drivers to patient counter-punchers. It’s expensive, no question, but it’s also one of the most complete paddles JOOLA has released to date.
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Dink Sink Pickleball Club Score: 9.3 / 10
Who Should Get the JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV
This paddle is best suited for intermediate to advanced players (4.0+) who want effortless power without giving up confidence in the soft game. If you like attacking off the bounce, countering hard at the kitchen, and trusting your paddle on emergency resets, the Pro IV fits exceptionally well.
The 14mm version favors speed, pop, and aggressive play, while the 16mm version provides extra dwell time and forgiveness for players who prioritize touch and stability. Beginners may find the price steep, but for competitive players, the performance justifies the investment.
JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV Performance Metrics
Power
Power is where the Pro IV immediately stands out. Drives, serves, and counters come off the face with minimal effort, thanks to its lively core and responsive face. Players consistently describe the paddle as “springy” in a good way; it rewards relaxed swings and accelerates the ball naturally without feeling uncontrollable.
This is especially noticeable on counters at the kitchen line, where short swings still produce depth and pace.
Control
Despite its power-forward profile, control is a major strength. Once players adjust to the slightly higher launch angle, the paddle becomes remarkably predictable. Drops feel clean, dinks stay consistent, and touch shots don’t float as much as you might expect from a paddle with this much pop.
Several players reported improved control compared to softer, older-generation paddles, which speaks to how balanced the Pro IV really is.
Spin
Spin production is excellent. Topspin drives dip hard, and cut dinks stay low with good shape. The textured face provides a reliable bite without feeling overly gritty or unpredictable. For players who rely on heavy topspin to control aggressive shots, the Pro IV delivers.
Design
Grip
The handle is comfortable and well-shaped, offering solid feedback without excessive vibration. Most players won’t feel the need to change grips out of the box.
Weight
The swing weight feels balanced. It’s substantial enough for stability but quick through hand battles. Many players noted they didn’t feel the need to add lead tape, which is rare for a high-power paddle.
Aerodynamics
The Perseus shape cuts cleanly through the air, helping with reaction time at the net and fast exchanges. It feels especially confident during speed-ups and defensive flicks.
Value
This is a premium-priced paddle, and there’s no getting around that. However, the combination of power, forgiveness, and soft-game performance makes it one of the most well-rounded paddles available. For competitive players, the value lies in not needing to compromise, or tinker, to get top-tier performance.
Product Specs for the JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV
- Available Thicknesses: 14mm and 16mm
- Paddle Shape: Perseus (elongated hybrid)
- Core: Polymer honeycomb
- Face Material: Textured composite surface
- Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Note: Exact weight and grip circumference may vary slightly by batch.
JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV Alternatives
- JOOLA Perseus 3S: Softer feel with less pop; great control but less explosive.
- Selkirk LUXX Control Air: More traditional control paddle with reduced power.
- Vatic Pro V7 (Original): Solid value control option, but smaller sweet spot and less forgiveness.
FAQs about the JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV
Is the Pro IV too powerful for control players?
Surprisingly, no. While it has plenty of pop, most players report better resets and soft-game consistency once adjusted.
Should I choose 14mm or 16mm?
Choose 14mm if you want faster hands and more pop. Choose 16mm if you prefer extra dwell time, stability, and forgiveness.
Does the Perseus Pro IV need lead tape?
Most players say no. They report that the paddle feels well-balanced right out of the box.
Is the JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV Right for You?
If you’re a competitive pickleball player looking for a paddle that does almost everything well, the Perseus Pro IV deserves serious consideration. It delivers elite-level power without punishing your soft game, offers one of the largest sweet spots in its class, and feels intuitive and surprisingly fast, even for players switching from more control-oriented paddles.
The price will scare some people off, and that’s understandable. But for players who want a paddle that rewards good mechanics, stays consistent under pressure, and shines in fast, modern pickleball, the Pro IV feels like a long-term solution rather than a short-term experiment.
In short: this paddle doesn’t just play hot, it plays smart.
Our goal is to help you find the right paddle. Read our pickleball paddle reviews for more information.