JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV (16mm) — Review
The Perseus Pro IV is the paddle that keeps topping independent "best overall" lists, and after testing it, the reason is simple: it's the rare paddle that doesn't have a real weakness. Power, control and spin all sit at a high level, which is exactly why it works for advancing players who've outgrown a beginner paddle but aren't ready to specialize.
Specs at a glance
| Core | 16mm Propulsion Honeycomb |
| Face | Textured carbon fiber (CFS) |
| Shape | Widebody (largest sweet spot in line) |
| Weight | 7.8–8.2 oz |
| Best for | Intermediate → advanced, all-court |
What we liked
- Balanced everywhere. Drives, resets and dinks all feel natural — no "dead" zone.
- Forgiving edges. Foam-injected edge guard expands the sweet spot to the paddle's corners.
- Fast to learn. No awkward adjustment period; it feels playable from the first rally.
What to consider
- Price. At ~$299 it's a commitment — fine as a "keep for years" paddle, steep as a first one.
- Not a beginner starter. New players won't feel the difference vs. a $120 paddle yet.
Who it's for
If you've been playing 6+ months, want one paddle that carries you from intermediate to serious, and value all-court flexibility over a single extreme, the Perseus Pro IV is our top recommendation. If you're brand new, start with a $100 paddle and upgrade later.
Verdict
Best overall A genuine do-it-all paddle. Buy it once, grow into it, and it won't hold you back as your game improves.
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