Joola Perseus IV Series Playtest: How Does It Stack Up Against the Perseus 3S?

The pickleball community has been buzzing with anticipation, waiting to see how the Joola Perseus IV Series would compare to its predecessor, the Perseus 3S. We took it upon ourselves to put these paddles to the test. With both the 14mm and 16mm versions of the Perseus IV, we hit the courts for some competitive match play, plenty of discussion, and a deep dive into how these paddles perform under pressure.

This wasn’t just about stats and specs. It was about real players, real games, and real reactions. If you're considering upgrading to the Perseus IV or simply curious about how it plays, this is the comparison you've been waiting for.

And if you're the type who likes to see things in action, click the link to watch the full playtest video on YouTube. It’s packed with gameplay, honest reactions, and plenty of insights.

The Plan for This Playtest

We approached this playtest with three main goals:

1. See how the Perseus IV performs in real gameplay – no drills, no practice swings, just pure match intensity.
2. Get unfiltered, real-time feedback from multiple players – we wanted honest reactions on feel, power, control, and more.
3. Compare the IV to the 3S and identify key differences – which paddle gives more power, better control, and an edge at the net?

So, how did the Perseus IV stack up? Let’s dive into it.

First Impressions: Joola Perseus IV vs. 3S

Right from the first game, the differences between the Perseus IV and the Perseus 3S were noticeable. Both models are solid paddles, but they cater to slightly different playstyles. Here’s what stood out.

Control and Feel

The Perseus IV immediately felt more controlled and forgiving, especially during softer play at the net. Players noticed better dwell time, meaning the ball stayed on the paddle just a bit longer. This allowed for more nuanced shots and better ball placement.

By comparison, the Perseus 3S felt stiffer and less forgiving. It delivered a solid punch, but if you weren’t precise, it could be harder to control, especially during dinks or drops.

One player summed it up well:
"The IV feels like it lets me shape the ball more. The 3S feels like it wants to do its own thing."

The difference between the 14mm and 16mm versions of the Perseus IV also became clear. The 14mm had a denser, poppier feel, perfect for aggressive plays. The 16mm offered a softer touch, providing a little more forgiveness during slower exchanges.

Power and Pop

If you’re a player who loves to hit hard, you’ll appreciate the power of both models. The 3S paddles were consistent powerhouses, but the Perseus IV delivered a more balanced experience. You still get plenty of pop, but with better control.

The 14mm Perseus IV provided a bit more immediate power and felt quicker in hand, ideal for fast exchanges. Meanwhile, the 16mm version excelled in controlled power – perfect for players who like to build points with precision.

One of the most telling reactions came after a particularly intense rally:
"With the 16mm Perseus IV, I felt more comfortable controlling the soft game, but when I needed to drive, it still had plenty of power."

Performance Under Pressure

Game situations tend to expose the true nature of any paddle. In our matches, the Perseus IV proved itself as the more consistent performer. It handled fast volleys and pressure plays with ease, allowing players to stay aggressive while maintaining control.

In contrast, the 3S paddles felt a bit less forgiving. When under pressure, it was easier to lose control of the shot, especially in softer exchanges near the kitchen. While they still packed power, it came with a higher risk of error.

Kitchen Play and Defensive Shots

One of the biggest highlights of the Perseus IV was its performance at the kitchen. Players reported better control, more consistent dinks, and improved confidence in defensive shots. The dwell time on the IV paddles meant that players had more time to react and place the ball exactly where they wanted.

The 3S paddles didn’t offer the same level of forgiveness. They required sharper focus and more precise timing, which could be a challenge in fast-paced rallies.

What Players Really Thought

After hours of gameplay, here were some key player takeaways:

• The 14mm Perseus IV felt quicker and had more pop, making it ideal for aggressive players who like to dominate at the net.
• The 16mm Perseus IV was preferred by players who valued control and consistency, particularly in softer plays and defensive situations.
• The 3S paddles were appreciated for their power but criticized for lacking control, especially in slower, more strategic play.

One player summed it up perfectly:
"The Perseus IV gives me the confidence to go for aggressive shots without worrying about losing control. The 3S always felt like it was just a little too hot to handle."

So, Which Paddle Wins?

If you're deciding between the Perseus IV and the 3S, here are some quick takeaways.

• If you value speed, pop, and aggressive play, the 14mm Perseus IV is the standout.
• If you prioritize control, finesse, and consistent soft play, the 16mm Perseus IV is the better choice.
• If power is your only concern, and you’re comfortable sacrificing a bit of control, the 3S can still hold its own.

Overall, though, most players felt the Perseus IV offered the better all-around performance.

"It’s the upgrade I was hoping for," said one player. "The 3S felt a little rushed, but the IV feels more refined, like it fixed all the little things that didn’t quite work before."

Should You Make the Switch?

That’s the million-dollar question. And like most things in pickleball, the answer depends on your playstyle.

• If you’ve struggled with control using the 3S, the Perseus IV is going to feel like a game-changer.
• If you’re looking for better dwell time and the ability to shape your shots, the Perseus IV delivers.
• If price is a factor, the upgrade might be a harder sell. But if you're serious about improving your game, it could be worth every penny.

One player put it this way:
"If someone handed me the IV for free, I’d switch immediately. If I had to pay for it, I’d still be seriously tempted."

Want to See the Perseus IV in Action?

We could talk about this all day, but nothing beats seeing it for yourself.

Click the link to watch the full playtest on YouTube. You’ll get to see competitive games, real-time reactions, and all the little moments that show exactly how these paddles perform under pressure. Whether you're thinking about upgrading or just love good pickleball, it's a match you don't want to miss.