Which is better, Goodman or Ruud?

Which is better, Goodman or Ruud depends on whether you prioritize lowest upfront cost with lifetime compressor warranty or slightly better build quality and quieter operation at moderate price. Goodman AC units like GSX14 14 SEER single stage and GSXC16 16 SEER two-stage are owned by Daikin and made in Houston, Texas, offering best value pricing with 14 to 16 SEER efficiency, 10-year parts and lifetime compressor warranties on many models like GSXC16 that covers compressor costing 1,500 to 2,500 dollars for life, and lowest upfront cost of 3,000 to 5,000 dollars installed for 3-ton, about 15 to 20 percent cheaper than Ruud, with service rates around 10 to 13 percent. Ruud AC units like RA14 14 SEER and RA16 17 SEER are made in Fort Smith, Arkansas by Rheem Manufacturing owned by Paloma Industries, identical to Rheem, offering mid-range quality with service rates around 9 to 12 percent slightly better than Goodman, quieter operation at 68 to 72 decibels versus Goodman at 70 to 74 decibels, and better cabinets with thicker steel, costing 3,800 to 6,500 dollars installed for 3-ton, about 10 to 15 percent more than Goodman, with 10-year parts warranty and lifetime compressor on some models. Both use Copeland scroll compressors and offer similar efficiency. For budget-conscious homeowners wanting absolute lowest cost and lifetime compressor warranty, Goodman is better value. For homeowners wanting slightly better build quality and lower noise at moderate price, Ruud is slightly better, lasting 15 to 18 years similar to Goodman.