Joola Perseus GEN 3S vs Joola Perseus Pro IV

                                       

JOOLA Perseus Pro IV Review – A Refinement, Not a Reinvention

JOOLA has built a reputation for power, and with the new Perseus Pro IV, they aren’t reinventing the wheel—they’re refining the ride. The Pro IV builds on the Perseus 3S by enhancing feel, balance, and stability without sacrificing the raw power JOOLA is known for. The new Tech Flex Power (TFP) technology adds denser foam in the throat for a smoother, more connected feel while maintaining the explosive pop of the Propulsion Core.

At launch on March 4, 2025, only the Perseus and Agassi shapes will be available, with others shipping in April. Here’s how the Perseus Pro IV stacks up against the 3S and where it lands among other elite power paddles.

 

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Performance Breakdown: Pro IV vs. Perseus 3S

• Weight & Maneuverability:
  
  

• The 16mm Pro IV has a higher static weight but lower swingweight and balance point, making it more maneuverable despite its added weight.

• The 14mm Pro IV follows the same trend, offering a lighter swingweight and better balance without losing stability.

• Power & Pop:
  
  

• Both models deliver elite-level offense, rivaling the Paddletek Bantams, Gearbox Pro Ultimate, and Proton Project Flamingo.

• The 16mm version offers easier access to power, while the 14mm requires more effort but gives a touch more control.

• Spin & Feel:
  
  

• Spin numbers are solid but not game-changing, with the 3S slightly edging out the Pro IV in spin tests.

• The Pro IV’s TFP tech improves comfort, making it smoother and less harsh than the stiff-feeling 3S.

• Control & Forgiveness:
  
  

• Control isn’t the main focus—these are power paddles first—but the improved feel helps with ball connection.

• Forgiveness is on par with the 3S, but maintaining the same stability while reducing swingweight is impressive.

 

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Market Comparison: Top Power Paddles

If you’re looking for pure offense, the Pro IV is among the best power paddles money can buy. More budget-friendly power options exist, like the 11SIX24 Power Series ($170), but they don’t pack the same punch.

 

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FAQs – Is It Worth It?

🔹 Is the Pro IV a better replacement for the Perseus 3S?
Yes—lighter swingweight, better balance, and improved feel make it an upgrade.

🔹 Did JOOLA improve durability?
JOOLA claims they’ve strengthened the core and improved quality control, but real-world durability remains to be seen.

🔹 Is the Pro IV worth the price?
If you want top-tier power and pop, the $280 price tag is justified. The 3S models are dropping to $240, but the Pro IV is a big enough improvement to warrant the extra cost.

🔹 Did they fix the handle?
Yes. The 16mm handle is now 4.25” (down from 4.5”), making it more comfortable. The 14mm handle remains thinner at around 4”.

 

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Final Verdict

The Perseus Pro IV refines one of the most powerful paddles on the market, making it more maneuverable, balanced, and comfortable while keeping its elite pop and power. While it still leans toward offense over control, advanced players will appreciate the trade-off. If you’re already a JOOLA power paddle fan, the Pro IV is a worthy upgrade.

Would we take it over the 3S? Yes. Would we take it over other power paddles? Depends on your playstyle—but it’s in the top tier.