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, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 144	$ 236	$ 2,477	$ 2,101
One-time Termination Benefits [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	125	440	999	711
Facility Closing [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	0	(315)	1,301	1,279
Other Restructuring [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 19	$ 111	$ 177	$ 111