Consolidated Condensed Statements of Stockholders' Equity (Unaudited) (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
Apr. 29, 2012
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Tax detriment included in issuance under stock plans	$ (14)

Tax Benefits Included In Issuance Under Stock Plans.

No definition available.

Name:	amat_TaxBenefitsIncludedInIssuanceUnderStockPlans
Namespace Prefix:	amat_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration