it's more difficult to consistently fil your space when there is greater volatility in size and outcome of the plant, which is true of autoflowers.
if you want to maximize your area, and tailor growth to need, buy photoperiods. if you want to be left to teh whims of a plant, buy autoflowers.
plant more than needed so you can cull the runts and ensure you still fill your space. best way to maximize such things. if you fil it right, it's no different than a photoperiod harvest filling the same space. photos can finish just as fast if you have a short vege.