The entire JOOLA 3S series of paddles rocked the paddle nerd community this year, and for good reason. The former Gen 3 series, since taken off the market, left its mark and kept paddle buyers interested in what JOOLA would do next.

They answered the call with the 3S, and the Magnus shape exemplifies much of what the company was trying to do in the first place.

With its heavy head and explosive propulsion core, every shot on the Magnus 3S feels like it’s dialed in for precision and power.

Want to control the game? This paddle makes it happen. Let's examine how it does that.

JOOLA Magnus 3S Specs

From the specs alone, it’s clear that JOOLA aimed to create a paddle that offers balance across power, spin, and control. 

The 16.5-inch length provides extra reach, ideal for players who like to stretch out and attack the ball early.

With two core thickness options—14mm for more pop and 16mm for more control—you’ve got the flexibility to match your paddle to your playing style.

How It Feels in the Hand

The 5-inch handle is slightly shorter than some other elongated paddles (like the Perseus), giving you more paddle surface to play with. If you prefer single-handed backhands, you’ll love this handle length—it maximizes your ability to manipulate the ball, offering superb grip on drives and dinks.

The grip also stands out. It has more tack than previous JOOLA paddles, providing a solid feel right from the first time you pick it up.

Whether you're transitioning from a soft reset at the kitchen line or stepping back for a full-swing drive, the grip supports quick changes in pace and direction.

When playing, you’ll notice the Magnus 3S’ standout feature: dwell time. Thanks to JOOLA’s Propulsion Core, the ball sits on the paddle longer, allowing for more spin.

You can really feel this on drop shots and drives. It’s almost like the paddle anticipates your next move, adding just the right amount of pop or cushion depending on your stroke speed.

Comparison to Other JOOLA Paddles

JOOLA's paddle roster is one of the most popular in pickleball. But the Magnus 3S brings something different to the table, especially compared with some of their other popular options:

JOOLA Perseus: Known for its more traditional elongated shape, the Perseus has a slightly longer handle (5.5 inches) and plays a bit smoother for those who love two-handed backhands. However, the Perseus lacks the head-heavy feel that makes the Magnus such a monster on power shots.

Related: JOOLA Mod TA vs. JOOLA Gen 3S: Breaking Down the Paddle Hype

JOOLA Hyperion: The Hyperion, one of JOOLA's flagship models, is a paddle designed for control. While it shares the same 16.5-inch length, the Magnus 3S edges it out in spin potential, largely due to the Propulsion Core. The Hyperion, however, might be better for players who prioritize consistent control in extended rallies.

JOOLA Scorpius: If you’re someone who likes a bigger sweet spot, the Scorpius could be worth a look. Its larger surface area offers forgiveness on off-center hits. But for those who prefer precision, the Magnus’ smaller sweet spot rewards well-timed shots with incredible speed and spin.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Unmatched Spin Potential: The Propulsion Core creates a unique trampoline-like effect, giving you more grip on the ball, ideal for topspin shots.

• Head-Heavy Balance: Players with strong attacks will appreciate the added weight toward the top of the paddle, which gives extra momentum on power shots.

• Versatile Dwell Time: You can manipulate the amount of power based on your stroke, making it suitable for both control and aggressive play.

• Comfortable Grip: The enhanced tacky grip makes the paddle feel secure during intense rallies.

• Durable Build: The Charged Carbon Surface is rugged, giving the paddle longer life and better wear resistance.

Cons

• Steep Learning Curve: If you’re not used to ultra-dynamic paddles like this, the Magnus 3S can feel unforgiving at first. It amplifies both your good and bad shots. Less experienced players might struggle with the sensitivity of the paddle, especially when controlling pace.

• Smaller Sweet Spot: While powerful, the paddle has a slightly smaller sweet spot than competitors, which might frustrate players who prefer a more forgiving face.

Who Is the Magnus 3S For?

The JOOLA Magnus 3S is not for everyone, and that’s okay. This paddle is crafted for advanced players who have the skill and patience to take advantage of its unique properties.

If you’re a 4.0+ player looking to add more variety to your shots—whether it’s an extra kick on a topspin drive or a perfectly placed drop shot—the Magnus 3S will help you dominate the game.

Singles players will love the head-heavy balance, which helps deliver low, fast drives with ample spin. However, if you rely on a two-handed backhand or need a larger sweet spot, the JOOLA Perseus might be a better fit.

For those willing to put in the practice time, the Magnus 3S rewards precision. It’s not going to save you from a lazy swing or poor footwork, but in the hands of a focused player, it’s lethal.

The JOOLA Magnus 3S offers a unique blend of power, control, and spin, making it a top choice for aggressive players looking to refine their game. 

Shop the JOOLA Magnus 3S today and see how it can transform your game.