The JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 16mm is one of the most explosive power pickleball paddles of 2026. Now marked down to $250 with the Pro V release, the value case is significantly stronger than at launch.
The Verdict
The Ben Johns paddle — now marked down to $250.
Loud, explosive, and genuinely competitive at $250. After thorough on-court evaluation, the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV landed in the upper tier of the paddles we tested in 2026.
If you're comparing it against other foam-core paddles, it's one of several great foam core paddles we've played this year.
Specs
| Overall Score | 8.8 / 10 |
| Price (with code) | $250 |
| Stock Price | $279.99 |
| Shape | Elongated |
| Thickness | 16mm |
| Core | Polypropylene Propulsion Core + TFP Foam |
| Face | Carbon Friction Surface |
| Weight | 8.1 oz |
| Grip Length | 5.5" |
| Swing Weight | 118 |
Performance Scores
On-Court Feel
The Pro IV hits. Drives come off with authority that you don't have to earn — the Propulsion Core does the heavy lifting and you just swing with intent. At the kitchen the story gets more honest — this paddle is built for attacking, and if your soft game isn't locked in you'll occasionally pop balls up. The elongated shape gives you genuine reach that shorter paddles can't match.
Performance & Testing
The JOOLA Perseus Pro IV went through our standard on-court protocol - drills, rec play, and at least one tournament match. Scores reflect consensus feedback, not a single reviewer's opinion.
Grit & Durability
Carbon Friction Surface provides good initial bite. The bigger durability question is core crush — a real issue with Gen 3 models. JOOLA has added quality control with the Pro IV, but the 1-year warranty is short for the price.
Who It's For
Attacking players who love an elongated shape and want to build points through pace and pressure.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Among the most powerful legal paddles
- Explosive instant pop
- Improved sweet spot vs Gen 3
- Dual certified (USAP + UPA-A)
- Marked down to $250
Cons
- Demands clean technique
- Lower twist weight
- 1-year warranty short for the price
- Core durability history
Bottom Line
Premium power, real competition at $175 and $250.
At $250 this is one of the better premium power paddles — but the Honolulu J2CR at $175 gives it real competition.
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