| Document and Entity Information | Dec. 10, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | PIXELWORKS, INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001040161 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 10, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | OR |
| Entity File Number | 000-30269 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 91-1761992 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 226 Airport Parkway |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 595 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | San Jose |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 95110 |
| City Area Code | (408) |
| Local Phone Number | 200-9200 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share |
| Trading Symbol | PXLW |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
