The present disclosure provides systems and methods that can provide portable, real-time accessible DNA memories. An example DNA-based data storage system includes a loading region configured to receive a plurality of DNA-based data storage elements in a suspension fluid and a plurality of microtubes disposed in a capture/release region. The microtubes are configured to capture and release the DNA-based data storage elements. The DNA-based data storage system also includes a linearization region configured to linearize the DNA-based data storage elements and a readout region with a readout device configured to provide information indicative of the respective DNA-based data storage elements.