Indie Hybrid Approach: Balancing Practical & VFX on a Shoestring Budget?

Hey everyone, I'm Erik Lindström, a sound mixer usually focused on getting clean audio, but I'm trying to produce a short sci-fi film on the side. We're looking at a Practical/Digital Hybrid approach, which sounds great in theory for world-building, but our budget is seriously tight, we're talking ramen noodles and borrowed equipment tight.

My dilemma is figuring out that sweet spot between building something physical and relying on digital extensions or full VFX. For instance, we need a futuristic control panel. Should we scrounge for junk and build a clunky practical one that we can light well, then add digital screens in post? Or is it more cost-effective to just green screen a basic frame and do the entire panel digitally? I’ve seen some great work done with both, but what's the actual dollar-for-dollar breakdown in terms of production time, talent, and post-production hours when every cent counts? How do you experienced folks decide what to build and what to paint in later when resources are so scarce?