DinkRun

JOOLA Perseus Pro V vs Pro IV: Is the 2026 KineticFrame Worth It?

The Perseus Pro V is a throat-and-frame redesign of the Pro IV, not a new core. Its KineticFrame flexes more uniformly for a steadier launch and faster reload, trading away some of the Pro IV's instant pop. Buy the Pro V for control and consistency; buy the Pro IV, often now discounted, if you want easier, more immediate power.

This comparison contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and partner of other programs, DinkRun may earn a commission at no cost to you.

At a glance

Spec JOOLA Perseus Pro V Check price on Amazon JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV Check price on Amazon
Price $280-$300 $200-$240
Our rating 4.7 / 5 4.7 / 5
Best for Intermediate-to-advanced players with the swing speed to drive an elongated paddle who value a stable, controllable launch over effortless power. Players at 4.0 and above whose game centers on aggressive driving, attacking short balls, and maintaining pressure from the baseline.
What changed New KineticFrame flexing throat Previous-generation throat
Feel Steadier launch, faster reload More immediate pop and power
Rewards Players who make their own pace Players who want free power
Thickness 14mm or 16mm 14mm or 16mm
Price Around $300 (current flagship) Often discounted as last-gen

The two options in depth

JOOLA JOOLA Perseus Pro V
4.7

JOOLA Perseus Pro V

JOOLA's 2026 flagship elongated paddle and the successor to Ben Johns' Perseus line, built around a new KineticFrame throat that thins the carbon through the neck so the face flexes more uniformly for a steadier launch.

Best for Intermediate-to-advanced players with the swing speed to drive an elongated paddle who value a stable, controllable launch over effortless power.

  • KineticFrame throat geometry produces a more stable, consistent launch angle and faster reload between fast-hands exchanges
  • Offered in 16mm (around 8.1 oz) and 14mm (around 7.9 oz) so you can pick control or quicker hands
  • Elongated shape and raw T700 carbon face give long reach and strong spin in the proven Perseus geometry
  • Reviewers note it lacks the instant pop of the outgoing Perseus Pro IV; offense takes more deliberate swing speed to unlock
$280-$300 Check price on Amazon
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

Which should you buy?

Buy the Perseus Pro V if you have the swing speed to generate your own power and want a more stable, controllable launch, since the KineticFrame is a real consistency upgrade. Buy the Perseus Pro IV if you would rather have effortless pop or want to save money now that it is last-generation, because the Pro V's gains are refinement, not a leap. Both are advanced elongated paddles; neither suits a developing player.

Common questions

Is the Perseus Pro V a big upgrade over the Pro IV?

No. It is a refinement. The KineticFrame throat redesign makes the launch steadier and the reload faster, which advanced players value, but the core is largely carried over and the Pro V gives up some of the Pro IV's instant power. Treat it as a control-and-consistency update, not a generational leap in performance.

Should I just buy the discounted Pro IV instead?

Often yes, if you want power and value. Once the Pro V becomes the flagship, the Pro IV typically drops in price while still being an elite paddle with easier pop. If your game is built on driving and you do not specifically want the steadier KineticFrame launch, the discounted Pro IV is the better value.

Are both paddles USAP approved?

Both are major-brand retail flagships, but approvals and delistings change. Always confirm the exact model on the live USA Pickleball approved list before a sanctioned tournament, since paddle approval status has shifted repeatedly in recent seasons.