I like my lifeguard aquatics 3000. Can be used internally or externally and is very quiet. Been running for 1.5 years with no problems. About 600 gph at 3 ft head pressure.
Not sure what size tank you are using it on, I run eheim compact plus on my 3 tanks. If you are budget minded they might be the best bang for your buck. Great head pressure, quiet, cool; no complaints.
Best is hard to answer...dependant on size and budget. A Red Dragon is an awesome pump but it could be over kill in some tanks and definitely not a budget friendly pump.
Just switched out my return pump for a ecotech Vectra L1. Best return pump I have ever owned. Completely silent and very controllable. It is kind of expensive but worth it in my opinion.