Would the three-minute class work better as frigates?

Would the three-minute class have been better if built as frigates?

Probably, but the frigate requirement would produce a larger and substantially redesigned ship rather than the same vessel under a new name.

Retaining the desired speed under a frigate requirement would probably require a larger hull. The designers would have to reconsider extensive aluminum construction instead of merely changing the ship's label. More displacement could support stronger armament and a better-balanced structure. The exercise also forces the navy to decide whether maximum speed deserves priority over firepower, durability, and general-purpose usefulness.