The present disclosure is drawn to, among other things, a method for accessing memory using dual standby modes, the method including receiving a first standby mode indication selecting a first standby mode from a first standby mode or a second standby mode, configuring a read bias system to provide a read bias voltage and a write bias system to provide approximately no voltage, or any voltage outside the necessary range for write operation, based on the first standby mode, receiving a second standby mode indication selecting the second standby mode, and configuring the read bias system to provide at least the read bias voltage and the write bias system to provide a write bias voltage based on the second standby mode, the read bias voltage being lower than the write bias voltage.