4x32GB over 8x16GB for deep learning.

I’d go with 4x32GB. Eight sticks of RAM put more stress on the memory controller and usually force you to run at lower speeds. Most deep learning work is GPU-bound anyway — your CPU RAM bandwidth or latency isn’t the bottleneck. Why risk stability or slower clocks for a marginal gain you probably won’t notice?

Yes, on a Threadripper or EPYC with 8 memory channels, 8x16GB might give you rank interleaving and slightly higher bandwidth. But that’s an edge case. For a typical dual-channel Xeon or Ryzen build, 4 sticks is the sweet spot: easier to hit rated speeds, better upgrade path (you can add another 4 sticks later), and less heat. Latency differences are