| Cover Page | Feb. 11, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 11, 2022 |
| Entity Registrant Name | PIXELWORKS, INC |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001040161 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | OR |
| Entity File Number | 000-30269 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 91-1761992 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 16760 SW Upper Boones Ferry Rd., Suite 101 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Portland |
| Entity Address, State or Province | OR |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 97224 |
| City Area Code | 503 |
| Local Phone Number | 601-4545 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | PXLW |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
