I agree that a 5x5 is more effective vs a 1 rep lift.

But the problem statement begins with- You need to finish the gym in less than 2 hours/week.

I like strength training, especially 3x5s.

My workout looks closer to a 5/3/1/5 pyramid due to warmup and trying to burn myself out on the last set.

I'm glad you mentioned this, I'll play with the math this weekend and try to find a point of diminishing returns.