[masraum]

The outdoor portion of a mini-split system can support multiple indoor units. I assume it's based on the manufacturer, but I think I've seen options where you could have 5 indoor units that all connected to the same outdoor unit.

I believe it's possible to have indoor units that essentially replace a ceiling vent (kind of look like a vent, but obviously, inside the wall/ceiling take up more space.

I've also been told that it's possible to have a single indoor unit work to cool 2 adjacent rooms.

My understanding is that the mini split route is supposed to be very efficient, but I think the initial cost is higher (per indoor unit cost), and there's also the matter of potentially having that indoor unit visible anywhere that you have AC.

I'm far from expert and haven't pulled the trigger but have done some research (not exhaustive) and talked to an AC guy.