INVENTORIES - Fair Value Step-Up in Basis (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventory step up adjustment		$ 4.7affx_InventoryStepUpAdjustment
Amortization expense on the fair value step-up	$ 4.7	$ 14.9	$ 9.4

The amount of expense recognized in the current period that reflects the allocation of the costs of fair value step-up in inventory over the expected benefit period of such assets. This element applies only to the fair value step-up in inventory used in the production of goods.

No definition available.

Name:	affx_CostOfGoodsSoldInventoryStep-UpAmortization
Namespace Prefix:	affx_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration