| Cover | Apr. 23, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Entity Information [Line Items] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | MaxLinear, Inc. |
| Document Period End Date | Apr. 23, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-34666 |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001288469 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 14-1896129 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 5966 La Place Court, Suite 100, |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Carlsbad, |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 92008 |
| City Area Code | 760 |
| Local Phone Number | 692-0711 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE, INC. [Member] | |
| Entity Information [Line Items] | |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common stock, $0.0001 par value |
| Trading Symbol | MXL |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
