MaxLinear, Inc. Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)

Restructuring Activity (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
Restructuring Activity (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 236	$ 2,178	$ 2,101	$ 8,724
One-time Termination Benefits [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	440	1,689	711	7,685
Facility Closing [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	(315)	351	1,279	901
Other Restructuring [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 111	$ 138	$ 111	$ 138