The answer to 'best central air' is that the best central air conditioning system for your home depends on factors like the size of your home, your local climate, and your budget. Generally, a high-efficiency, properly-sized central air conditioner with a seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) of 16 or higher is considered one of the best options for most homeowners. These systems are energy-efficient, provide consistent cooling, and can last 15-20 years with proper maintenance.
When choosing a central air conditioner, you'll want to consider the cooling capacity needed for your home's square footage, as well as features like variable-speed compressors, smart thermostats, and zoned cooling. It's best to have a professional HVAC contractor perform a load calculation to determine the right size unit for your home.