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JOOLA Perseus Pro IV vs Selkirk LUXX Control Air: Power or Control?

These are two elite paddles built for opposite games. The JOOLA Perseus Pro IV is a power-and-spin weapon for 4.0+ players who attack and drive. The Selkirk LUXX Control Air S2 is a control-first paddle for players who live at the kitchen line and want maximum touch on dinks and third-shot drops.

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At a glance

Spec JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV Check price on Amazon Selkirk LUXX Control Air S2 Check price on Amazon
Price $200-$240 $180-$200
Our rating 4.7 / 5 4.7 / 5
Best for Players at 4.0 and above whose game centers on aggressive driving, attacking short balls, and maintaining pressure from the baseline. Intermediate to advanced players rated 3.5 and above whose game is built around the non-volley zone, patient dinking exchanges, and precise third-shot drops.
Play style Power, aggressive driving Control, soft game
Skill level 4.0 and above 3.5 and above
Strength Drives and attacks Dinks and resets

The two options in depth

JOOLA JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV
4.7

JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV

The advanced-player version of the Ben Johns lineup, with an elongated 16.5-inch platform, carbon fiber face, and a power-forward feel built for attacking play. Used at the 5.0 and professional levels where aggressive fourth shots and drives define the game.

Best for Players at 4.0 and above whose game centers on aggressive driving, attacking short balls, and maintaining pressure from the baseline.

  • Elongated 16.5-inch platform extends reach and increases leverage on drive shots
  • Carbon fiber face with high grit generates heavy topspin at full swing speeds
  • Built for attacking pickleball where power and penetration matter as much as touch
  • Elongated shape requires adjustment for players used to standard-length paddles
$200-$240 Check price on Amazon
Selkirk Selkirk LUXX Control Air S2
4.7

Selkirk LUXX Control Air S2

A 20mm Thikset honeycomb core paired with a Florek Blended Carbon Fiber face produces one of the softest, most responsive dinking experiences on the market. At 8.1 to 8.5 oz and with a 4.5-inch handle, it is built for kitchen-dominant players who value touch over raw power.

Best for Intermediate to advanced players rated 3.5 and above whose game is built around the non-volley zone, patient dinking exchanges, and precise third-shot drops.

  • 20mm Thikset core produces exceptional soft-game touch and blocking consistency
  • Florek carbon fiber face generates reliable topspin at the kitchen line
  • Standard 15.7-inch length suits players transitioning from traditional tennis rackets
  • Softer core limits the pop available for drive-heavy or aggressive baseline play
$180-$200 Check price on Amazon

Which should you buy?

Buy the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV if your game is built on driving, attacking short balls, and applying pressure, and you play at 4.0 or above. Buy the Selkirk LUXX Control Air if you win with patience, dinking, and precise drops at the non-volley zone. Power players will find the LUXX too soft; control players will find the Perseus hard to rein in.

Common questions

Is the Perseus Pro IV a good first paddle?

No. It is purpose-built for attacking at the advanced level and is not the right choice for players still developing soft-game fundamentals. Beginners are better served by a more balanced control paddle.

Which paddle has more control?

The Selkirk LUXX Control Air S2 is the control paddle of the two, built for touch, dinking, and third-shot drops. The Perseus prioritizes power and spin.

Are both USAP approved for tournament play?

Both are current retail flagships from major brands, but approvals and delistings change. Always confirm the exact model on the live USAP approved list before a sanctioned tournament.