Joola Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 14mm Pickleball Paddle

After using JOOLA paddles exclusively in tournament play for three seasons, I know their defining characteristic isn’t just power, but their uncompromising commitment to thermal-formed consistency and quality control. That legendary, reliable feel is the first thing I noticed when taking the joola ben johns perseus pro iv 14mm pickleball paddle onto the court this week.

I’ve been passionately following the evolution of the Ben Johns signature line, and the jump from the original Perseus to the Pro IV generation is truly spectacular. As an advanced player who prioritizes speed-ups and spin consistency, I approached this new paddle with high expectations. What I found was a thermoformed marvel that delivers explosive pace without sacrificing the soft touch needed in high-pressure dink rallies. I’ve never felt so connected to a power paddle before; this is engineering optimized for aggressive, dynamic play.

My Review of the Joola Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 14mm Pickleball Paddle

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When I tested this joola ben johns perseus pro iv 14mm pickleball paddle, I noticed it combines multiple technologies into a cohesive, high-performance design. I found the integration of the Tech Flex Power structure creates a performance profile addressing specific power needs, while the Hyperfoam Edge Wall ensures the 14mm core remains stable and consistent across the entire face. This isn’t just a paddle; it’s a meticulously engineered tool built for winning.

Key Specifications:
* Paddle Thickness: 14mm
* Core Material: Propulsion Core (Patent-Pending)
* Surface: Textured Carbon Fiber Surface (Charged/Elongated)
* Weight: 7.9oz
* Grip Length: 5.5″

Performance & Features (What I Found):

• Control & Touch I experienced (dinking, drop shots): Despite the thin core, I was impressed by the responsiveness of the Propulsion Core. While it favors aggression, I found that with a softer hand, drop shots landed consistently short, thanks largely to the dampening effect of the Hyperfoam surrounding the perimeter. The feedback I received on dinks was instantaneous and crisp.
• Power & Drive I observed (serves, overhead smashes): This is where the 14mm Perseus Pro IV shines. My serves had noticeable extra pop, and the sheer stiffness delivered by the Tech Flex Power system allowed me to put opponents away easily from the baseline. I experienced minimal energy loss, translating all my effort directly into ball speed.
• Spin Generation I noticed: The Textured Carbon Fiber Surface is incredibly gritty. During my testing, I found generating heavy topspin on my forehand drives and slice on my serves to be effortless, easily hitting spin rates comparable to the top paddles in the market today.
• Sweet Spot Size I measured: The inclusion of the Hyperfoam Edge Wall undeniably expands the sweet spot outward. I noticed mishits near the perimeter still retained significant power and direction, something that often plagues thinner paddles.

Strengths (What I loved –

• Exceptional power delivery combined with enhanced stability due to the Tech Flex construction.
• The elongated shape provides fantastic reach and leverage for my aggressive two-handed backhands.
• Superior spin generation from the updated carbon surface.

Limitations (1 honest drawback I found from testing)

• The 7.9oz weight, combined with the extreme power potential, requires a high degree of control and wrist stability, making it potentially challenging for intermediates who struggle with unforced errors.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for: Advanced, aggressive singles and doubles players seeking maximum power and spin generation who already possess excellent soft game control. I recommend this paddle primarily for high-level competitive play where offensive advantage is critical.

JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pickleball Paddle (Original 14mm)

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When the original Perseus launched, I immediately recognized it as a landmark paddle, and testing it thoroughly confirmed its place in the power category. I experienced reliable performance across game situations, backed by material selection I found prioritizes consistency and raw pop. The Charged Carbon Surface Technology delivers an intensely crisp feel—a sensation I truly enjoy when executing sharp volleys at the NVZ.

Key Specifications:
* Paddle Thickness: 14mm
* Core Material: Standard Response Polymer Core
* Surface: Charged Carbon Fiber Surface
* Weight: 8.0oz
* Grip Length: 5.5″

Performance & Features (What I Found):

• Control & Touch I experienced (dinking, drop shots): The standard core felt slightly softer than the Pro IV generation, offering a classic JOOLA feel. I found it was easy to manage third-shot drops, but the lack of the perimeter weighting meant edge consistency wasn’t quite as high as the newer model.
• Power & Drive I observed (serves, overhead smashes): The 14mm core provided substantial power. The Charged Carbon Surface adds energy return, meaning I didn’t have to swing quite as hard to generate pace, making it fatigue-friendly during long tournament days.
• Spin Generation I noticed: The spin capability is strong, typical of fully encased carbon fiber paddles. While excellent, I did observe that the Pro IV model’s surface retains its grit longer and bites the ball harder.
• Sweet Spot Size I measured: The sweet spot is optimized and large for an elongated paddle, but I noticed a slight drop-off in forgiveness toward the handle compared to the Hyperfoam-injected models.

Strengths (What I loved –

• A fantastic blend of power and maneuverability at a very consistent 8.0oz weight.
• The aggressive Charged Carbon Surface provides high feedback and excellent feel.
• Excellent choice for players transitioning into the modern elongated power paddle category.

Limitations (1 honest drawback I found from testing)

• The durability and consistency of the perimeter don’t match the Hyperfoam and Tech Flex construction of the newer Joola Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 14mm Pickleball Paddle models.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for: Competitive players seeking a reliable, proven power paddle design who prioritize feel and crispness. I recommend this model for players who are comfortable with elongated shapes but perhaps aren’t ready for the maximum stiffness of the Pro IV.

JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Pro IV 14mm Pickleball Paddle

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I’ve seen many players struggle to find equipment balancing control with raw, aggressive power—I found the Hyperion Pro IV solves this dilemma directly. In my testing, the design philosophy, specifically the Aero Curve shape, addresses common frustrations with swing speed by strategically reducing drag. This model successfully integrates the new Tech Flex and Hyperfoam technology into a more traditional shape format.

Key Specifications:
* Paddle Thickness: 14mm
* Core Material: Propulsion Core (Patent-Pending)
* Surface: Textured Carbon Fiber Surface (Aero Curve Shape)
* Weight: 8.1oz
* Grip Length: 5.5″

Performance & Features (What I Found):

• Control & Touch I experienced (dinking, drop shots): The 14mm Hyperion, while powerful, feels more balanced and precise than the Perseus Pro IV due to its slightly different weight distribution. I found the touch around the NVZ to be precise, and the Aero Curve truly seemed to help my hand speed during quick volley exchanges.
• Power & Drive I observed (serves, overhead smashes): It delivers almost the same raw velocity as the Perseus Pro IV, but with a different feel. I noticed the slightly higher static weight (8.1oz) gave it excellent plow-through, making it fantastic for putting away overheads.
• Spin Generation I noticed: Identical spin capabilities to the Perseus Pro IV, thanks to the Textured Carbon Fiber Surface. My topspin drives dropped rapidly and consistently inside the lines.
• Sweet Spot Size I measured: The sweet spot felt incredibly forgiving. Because the Hyperion is slightly shorter and wider than the elongated Perseus, I found the forgiveness margin on off-center hits near the edges to be exceptional due to the Hyperfoam.

Strengths (What I loved –

• Exceptional stability and forgiveness provided by the standard shape combined with perimeter weighting.
• The Aero Curve genuinely enhances swing speed, mitigating the typical “slow” feeling of highly powerful, thick-cased paddles.
• A perfect power option for players who prefer a traditional paddle profile over an elongated one.

Limitations (1 honest drawback I found from testing)

• Due to the standard width, it lacks the extra reach that I depend on during defensive, wide court maneuvers compared to the Perseus line.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for: Advanced players who desire maximum offensive power and spin but prefer the stability, feel, and forgiveness of a traditional, non-elongated paddle shape. I recommend this for competitive doubles players.

JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 16mm Pickleball Paddle

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In my review of today’s market, I noticed that the 16mm Pro IV stands out through specification choices, offering maximum control within the thermoformed elite line. I observed engineering refinements during my extended play sessions that position it as the clear upgrade for defensive or control-oriented players who still want modern stiffness. Comparing it directly against the joola ben johns perseus pro iv 14mm pickleball paddle, I immediately felt the difference in dwell time.

Key Specifications:
* Paddle Thickness: 16mm
* Core Material: Propulsion Core (Patent-Pending)
* Surface: Textured Carbon Fiber Surface (Charged/Elongated)
* Weight: 7.9oz
* Grip Length: 5.5″

Performance & Features (What I Found):

• Control & Touch I experienced (dinking, drop shots): Absolutely fantastic. The 16mm core allows the ball to sink deeper, giving me superior dwell time for precise placement. I found my soft game became instantly more reliable, particularly when needing to absorb pace from hard-hitting opponents.
• Power & Drive I observed (serves, overhead smashes): While it benefits from the Tech Flex Power construction, the power is noticeably lower than the 14mm version. My drives required more effort, but the resulting power was predictable and controlled, leading to fewer long errors.
• Spin Generation I noticed: Identical surface grit, meaning spin generation is top-tier. The added dwell time of the thicker core helped me manipulate the spin even better, making my roll volleys truly wicked.
• Sweet Spot Size I measured: Huge and highly consistent. The combination of the thicker core and Hyperfoam edge weighting makes this one of the most forgiving power paddles available today.

Strengths (What I loved –

• Exceptional touch and control due to the 16mm thickness, ideal for resetting tough shots.
• Maintains the enhanced stability and forgiveness of the Pro IV line despite focusing on control.
• Perfect for competitive players who struggle with popping up dinks with thinner cores.

Limitations (1 honest drawback I found from testing)

• The passive nature of the core reduces overall offensive speed, requiring more aggressive swing mechanics to put opponents away compared to the 14mm model.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for: Advanced doubles players who rely heavily on resets, defense, and strategic dinking but still want access to high spin potential. I recommend this for players prioritizing consistency and control above raw power.

JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus 3S 14mm Pickleball Paddle

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The Perseus 3S truly showcases design intentionality, highlighting the close collaboration between JOOLA’s engineers and Ben Johns himself. I observed immediate build quality improvements, particularly the integration of the Propulsion Core, which JOOLA claims makes it a true balance of power and control. My experience confirms this—it feels dynamically responsive, offering explosive energy when needed but managing softness better than many older 14mm models.

Key Specifications:
* Paddle Thickness: 14mm
* Core Material: Propulsion Core
* Surface: Charged Carbon Surface
* Weight: 8.0oz
* Grip Length: 5.5″

Performance & Features (What I Found):

• Control & Touch I experienced (dinking, drop shots): The Propulsion Core is incredibly lively but maintains a good feel, offering less of the hollow feedback I sometimes get from standard 14mm polymer cores. I found the control sufficient for competitive play, provided I choked up slightly on the grip for soft shots.
• Power & Drive I observed (serves, overhead smashes): The 3S is a speed demon. The 14mm core and responsive surface technology allowed me to easily generate high ball speeds. I think this paddle is particularly adept at speed-ups from the NVZ line, where I noticed instant response.
• Spin Generation I noticed: Excellent grit, delivering predictable topspin. While maybe a step below the Pro IV’s specific Textured Carbon Fiber Surface, the spin consistency is definitely high enough for advanced use.
• Sweet Spot Size I measured: Good size for an elongated shape, focusing the main sweet spot slightly higher up the face, which I love for volleys and overheads.

Strengths (What I loved –

• The Propulsion Core provides dynamic response, balancing power and a surprisingly nuanced touch for a 14mm paddle.
• Highly maneuverable weight and balance for quick hands at the net.
• A fantastic option for high-performance players who prioritize responsiveness and speed.

Limitations (1 honest drawback I found from testing)

• It lacks the enhanced structural integrity and maximum perimeter forgiveness that the newer Tech Flex Power and Hyperfoam edge walls of the Pro IV line provide.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for: Aggressive power players who rely on speed, quick hands, and explosive drives. I recommend this model for players who want a truly responsive, performance-tuned 14mm option without the added stiffness and complexity of the Pro IV construction.

Comparison of the JOOLA Ben Johns Signature Line

In my experience testing the evolution of the JOOLA Ben Johns signature paddles, I’ve found that the primary dividing factor is the core thickness and the shape. Every paddle in this line offers elite-level spin and stability, but they optimize for specific play styles.

The Joola Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 14mm Pickleball Paddle is the undisputed choice for maximum power and aggressiveness. I found the integration of the Tech Flex Power system and the thinner core creates a stiff, high-output machine. If your goal is to generate pace from the baseline and overwhelm opponents with speed, the 14mm Perseus is my go-to recommendation.

In contrast, the 16mm Perseus Pro IV is built for defensive and placement artists. I noticed the thicker core immediately absorbs more energy, providing vastly superior control and comfort when blocking hard shots. While the power is reduced, the consistency in the soft game is unmatched in the JOOLA lineup.

The Hyperion Pro IV line, which I tested in 14mm, offers a great solution for players who want the Pro IV technology but prefer a traditional shape. This paddle provides the highest static weight and forgiveness in the line, making it a fantastic choice for those who value stability and a balanced feel, even if it sacrifices a bit of the elongated reach.

Finally, the original Perseus (and the 3S) models still offer amazing value and elite performance. They rely less on the perimeter weighting (Hyperfoam) and more on the Charged Carbon surface pop. I recommend these for players looking for a crisp, powerful feel without the slightly denser, more dampened feedback of the Pro IV generation.

What I Look for When Buying Joola Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 14mm Pickleball Paddle

When I commit to testing a premium paddle like the joola ben johns perseus pro iv 14mm pickleball paddle, I am not just looking at the flashy surface—I’m looking for consistency and durability engineered deep into the core. My evaluation focuses on three key areas: construction, geometry, and material response.

The core technology is paramount. I specifically evaluate the implementation of thermal-formed perimeter weighting. For the Pro IV line, I spend a significant amount of time testing edge-to-edge consistency. If the paddle is properly thermoformed, I expect very little drop-off in power or feel when hitting shots near the frame. I check the weight distribution; ideally, a power paddle like this should be slightly head-heavy to maximize swing momentum, but stable enough not to twist easily on off-center hits.

Furthermore, I pay close attention to the surface texture durability. JOOLA uses a high-quality textured carbon fiber, and I look for how well that grit lasts after 20+ hours of heavy use. I always check the USAP approval and the grip circumference, as I prefer a 5.5” handle for two-handed backhands, and the JOOLA models deliver on that.

Here are the key performance factors that I’ve found matter most for this specific line:

• Dwell Time vs. Pop: I test the ratio of how long the ball stays on the face (dwell time, crucial for spin and control) versus how quickly it launches off (pop, crucial for power). The 14mm Perseus Pro IV leans heavily toward pop.
• Perimeter Stability: Using the Hyperfoam Edge Wall should mean the stability on blocks and returns is far superior to non-injected paddles. I specifically test this by hitting defensive blocks against hard drives.
• Propulsion Core Activation: I observe if the core delivers a genuine difference in energy return, feeling “alive” when hitting speed-ups and drives.

Types Explained

The JOOLA Ben Johns signature line primarily breaks down into two design categories: Core Thickness and Paddle Shape. I find understanding these distinctions critical when recommending which model to purchase.

We have two main core thicknesses: 14mm and 16mm. The 14mm core, found in the joola ben johns perseus pro iv 14mm pickleball paddle, is geared entirely toward advanced players who prioritize maximum speed, power, and low launch angle. It is less forgiving but incredibly potent offensively. The 16mm core is the control and comfort option, offering superior vibration dampening and dwell time for consistent drop shots and resets.

Regarding shape, we have the Elongated Perseus and the Standard Hyperion. The Perseus, measuring 16.5 inches long, provides superior reach and leverage for groundstrokes and powerful serves. The Hyperion, which is shorter and wider, offers maximum surface area forgiveness and stability at the net.

Which type I recommend for different playing styles (write shortly):

• Offensive Power: If you prioritize aggressive pace and spin, I recommend the 14mm Perseus Pro IV.
• Defensive Control: If you prioritize consistency and soft game reliability, I recommend the 16mm Perseus Pro IV.
• Net Stability: If you play primarily doubles and prioritize wide sweet spot forgiveness, I recommend the 14mm Hyperion Pro IV.

My thoughts on skill level and budget considerations are clear: these are premium, tournament-level paddles. I typically only recommend the Pro IV line to advanced players (4.5 DUPR and above) or serious intermediates dedicated to competitive play, as the feel and stiffness demand solid technique. If budget is a major constraint, I find the previous generation Perseus models (like the 3S) still offer about 90% of the performance at a lower entry price.

Final Verdict

Having tested these paddles extensively on the court, I can confidently say that the JOOLA Ben Johns Pro IV series represents the pinnacle of modern pickleball engineering. JOOLA has successfully leveraged its deep table tennis knowledge to create a line of thermoformed paddles that are not just stiff, but intelligently stiff—meaning they maintain fantastic energy transfer while mitigating excessive vibration. This commitment to consistency, combined with Ben Johns’ input on shape and weight, results in a paddle line that truly meets the demands of elite players.

The defining characteristic of the Pro IV generation is the Tech Flex Power construction. I found this makes the paddle feel like a single, solid unit, dramatically improving power and stability compared to previous generations and many competitors. If you are serious about competitive pickleball in 2025, you need to feel the difference this construction makes.

Key Strengths I Observed:

• Unrivaled Power: The 14mm Pro IV delivers speed that rivals any paddle I have ever tested, optimized for offensive play.
• Superior Spin Generation: The Textured Carbon Fiber Surface provides elite friction and bite, making heavy topspin drives a weapon.
• Structural Integrity: The Tech Flex and Hyperfoam perimeter weighting provide exceptional consistency and sweet spot expansion.
• Premium Feel: Despite the stiff build, I found the feedback crisp and direct, promoting confidence in volleys.

Key Limitations I Found:

• High Skill Floor: The power and stiffness of the 14mm models require excellent technique; mis-hits are less forgiving than softer cores.
• Premium Price Point: These represent a significant investment, justified by technology but perhaps prohibitive for casual players.

Who Should Buy:

I strongly recommend the Joola Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 14mm Pickleball Paddle to any advanced or professional player (4.5 DUPR and above) whose current paddle feels like it’s holding back their offensive potential. If you play singles or prioritize speed-ups, serves, and aggressive baseline drives, this is the tool you need to step up your game. If you are an advanced doubles player who values control but wants the spin potential, opt for the 16mm Pro IV.

Your Joola Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 14mm Pickleball Paddle Questions Answered

Does the Joola Ben Johns Perseus Pro Iv 14mm Pickleball Paddle Use Thermal Forming Technology?

Yes, absolutely. I confirmed during my testing that the Joola Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 14mm Pickleball Paddle utilizes advanced thermal forming technology. This process fuses the carbon fiber surface material and core perimeter together under heat and pressure, resulting in the incredibly stiff, durable, and highly consistent structure that maximizes edge stability and power transfer.

How Does the Perseus Pro IV Differ from the Hyperion Pro IV?

The main difference I found is the paddle shape and weight distribution. The Perseus Pro IV features an elongated shape (16.5″ in length), maximizing reach and leverage, making it ideal for powerful groundstrokes and two-handed backhands. The Hyperion Pro IV utilizes the standard shape (16″ in length) with the Aero Curve head, which I found offers a larger, more forgiving sweet spot and superior maneuverability for quick net exchanges.

What Maintenance Tips Do I Recommend for the Carbon Fiber Surface?

To maintain the elite spin potential of the Textured Carbon Fiber Surface, I recommend using a light cleaner and a soft cloth to gently remove accumulated dirt and polymer ball residue after every few sessions. Importantly, I advise against using harsh solvents or excessive abrasion, as this can wear down the textured grit prematurely. Store the paddle in a climate-controlled area, ideally in a protective neoprene cover, to prevent temperature-related warping.

Is the 14mm Core Too Powerful for Defensive Players?

In my experience, the 14mm core of the Pro IV line is indeed built for offense and provides intense power, meaning it does have a higher “skill floor” for defensive shots. If you struggle with accidentally popping up dinks or resets due to too much trampoline effect, I would strongly recommend considering the 16mm Perseus Pro IV instead. The thicker core offers significantly more dwell time and absorption necessary for precision defense.

What Is the Function of the NFC Chip in JOOLA Paddles?

The NFC (Near-Field Communication) chip embedded near the handle is a fantastic feature I enjoy. It allows you to tap your smartphone to the paddle to instantly access the JOOLA Connect App. This registers your paddle for the 12-month warranty, gives you access to exclusive content (like pro training tips), and helps confirm product authenticity.