Accounting Policies [Abstract] Property, plant and equipment useful lives Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Vesting period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Dividend yield Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Equity [Abstract] Class of Warrant or Right [Table] Class of Warrant or Right [Table] Supply Commitment [Axis] Supply Commitment [Axis] Supply Commitment Arrangement [Domain] Supply Commitment Arrangement [Domain] Supply Commitment Supply Commitment [Member] Class of Warrant or Right [Axis] Class of Warrant or Right [Axis] Class of Warrant or Right [Domain] Class of Warrant or Right [Domain] Performance-based warrants Common Stock Purchase Warrant [Member] Common Stock Purchase Warrant [Member] Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items] Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items] Supply threshold level one, amount Class of Warrant or Right, Supply Threshold Level One, Amount Class of Warrant or Right, Supply Threshold Level One, Amount Supply threshold level two, amount Class of Warrant or Right, Supply Threshold Level Two, Amount Class of Warrant or Right, Supply Threshold Level Two, Amount Supply threshold level three, amount Class of Warrant or Right, Supply Threshold Level Three, Amount Class of Warrant or Right, Supply Threshold Level Three, Amount Incremental warrants that will vest, vesting period one, supply threshold level one (in shares) Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period One, Supply Threshold Level One Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period One, Supply Threshold Level One Incremental warrants that will vest, vesting period one, supply threshold level two (in shares) Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period One, Supply Threshold Level Two Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period One, Supply Threshold Level Two Incremental warrants that will vest, vesting period one, supply threshold level three (in shares) Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period One, Supply Threshold Level Three Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period One, Supply Threshold Level Three Maximum potential warrants that will vest, vesting period one (in shares) Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period One Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period One Incremental warrants that will vest, vesting period two, supply threshold level one (in shares) Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Two, Supply Threshold Level One Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Two, Supply Threshold Level One Incremental warrants that will vest, vesting period two, supply threshold level two (in shares) Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Two, Supply Threshold Level Two Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Two, Supply Threshold Level Two Incremental warrants that will vest, vesting period two, supply threshold level three (in shares) Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Two, Supply Threshold Level Three Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period One, Supply Threshold Level Three Maximum potential warrants that will vest, vesting period two (in shares) Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Two Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Two Incremental warrants that will vest, vesting period three, supply threshold level one (in shares) Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Three, Supply Threshold Level One Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Three, Supply Threshold Level One Incremental warrants that will vest, vesting period three, supply threshold level two (in shares) Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Three, Supply Threshold Level Two Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Three, Supply Threshold Level Two Incremental warrants that will vest, vesting period three, supply threshold level three (in shares) Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Three, Supply Threshold Level Three Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Three, Supply Threshold Level Three Maximum potential warrants that will vest, vesting period three (in shares) Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Three Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Each Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Three Leases [Abstract] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Changes in Reserve for Product Warranty Claim Costs Schedule of Product Warranty Liability [Table Text Block] Payables and Accruals [Abstract] Components of Other Accrued Liabilities Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Weighted average fair value of grants (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Risk-free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Expected life in years Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Residential Control Systems, Inc Residential Control Systems, Inc [Member] Residential Control Systems, Inc [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Net sales Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Net income (loss) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Net income (loss) attributable to Universal Electronics Inc. Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss), Attributable to Parent Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss), Attributable to Parent Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to Universal Electronics, Inc. (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to Universal Electronics, Inc. (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Deferred tax assets: Components of Deferred Tax Assets [Abstract] Inventory reserves Deferred Tax Assets, Inventory Capitalized research costs Deferred Tax Assets, Capitalized Research Costs Deferred Tax Assets, Capitalized Research Costs Capitalized inventory costs Deferred Tax Assets, Capitalized Inventory Costs Deferred Tax Assets, Capitalized Inventory Costs Net operating losses Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Acquired intangible assets Deferred Tax Assets, Goodwill and Intangible Assets Accrued liabilities Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Accrued Liabilities Income tax credits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards Stock-based compensation Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost Amortization of intangible assets Deferred Tax Assets, Amortization of Intangible Assets Deferred Tax Assets, Amortization of Intangible Assets Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Deferred tax liabilities: Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract] Depreciation Deferred Tax Liabilities, Depreciation Deferred Tax Liabilities, Depreciation Allowance for doubtful accounts Deferred Tax Liabilities, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Deferred Tax Liabilities, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Amortization of intangible assets Deferred Tax Liabilities, Amortization of Intangible Assets Deferred Tax Liabilities, Amortization of Intangible Assets Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Net deferred tax assets before valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Deferred Tax Liabilities, Before Valuation Allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Deferred Tax Liabilities, Before Valuation Allowance Less: Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Net deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Federal Domestic Tax Authority [Member] State State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Foreign Foreign Tax Authority [Member] SimpleDevices SimpleDevices [Member] SimpleDevices [Member] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Net operating losses Operating Loss Carryforwards Operating losses annual limitation Operating Loss Carryforwards, Annual Limitation Operating Loss Carryforwards, Annual Limitation Schedule of purchase level and number of warrants that will vest Schedule of Stockholders' Equity Note, Warrants or Rights [Table Text Block] Schedule of fair value assumptions Schedule of Fair Value Assumptions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Fair Value Assumptions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Impact to Net Sales Due to Warrants Schedule of Impact To Net Sales Due To Warrants [Table Text Block] Schedule of Impact To Net Sales Due To Warrants [Table Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Estimated Future Amortization expense Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five Intangible assets, net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Remaining weighted average amortization period Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Forecast Scenario, Forecast [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Stock options Employee Stock Option [Member] Non-vested restricted stock award Restricted Stock [Member] Title of Individual [Axis] Title of Individual [Axis] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Outside directors Director [Member] Certain Executive Employees Certain Executive Employees [Member] Certain Executive Employees [Member] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Domain] Vesting [Domain] Percent Vesting on February 8, 2019 Percent Vesting on February 8, 2019 [Member] Percent Vesting on February 8, 2019 [Member] Quarterly Vesting Percent Vesting Quarterly [Member] Percent Vesting Quarterly [Member] Percent Vesting On February 21, 2019 Percent Vesting On February 21, 2019 [Member] Percent Vesting On February 21, 2019 [Member] Surrendered stock options (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period Acceleration of stock-based compensation expense Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Accelerated Compensation Cost Modification expense Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Plan Modification, Incremental Compensation Cost Proceeds from stock options exercised Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Tax benefit from stock options exercised Deferred Tax Expense from Stock Options Exercised Unrecognized pre-tax stock-based compensation expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Unrecognized pre-tax stock-based compensation expense, period for recognition Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Options granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross Award vesting rights percentage Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage Options grant date fair value Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options Grants in Period Grant Date Fair Value Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award options grants in period grant date fair value. Restricted stock granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Restricted stock vested (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Restricted stock, grant date fair value Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Grant Date Fair Value Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award equity instruments other than options grant date fair value. Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Net sales Revenue, Net Gross profit Gross Profit Operating income (loss) Operating Income (Loss) Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) attributable to Universal Electronics Inc. Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Earnings (loss) per share attributable to Universal Electronics Inc.: Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Basic (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Stock-Based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Inventory Purchases Cost of Goods, Total [Member] Accounts Payable Accounts Payable [Member] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Supplier Concentration Risk Supplier Concentration Risk [Member] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Executive Vice President Executive Vice President [Member] Affiliated Entity Affiliated Entity [Member] Related Party Transactions [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Ownership percentage in third party by executive Related Party Transaction, Ownership Percentage In Affiliated Entity Related party transaction, ownership percentage by affiliated entity Inventory purchases form related party Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party Accounts payable, related parties Accounts Payable, Related Parties Concentration risk percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Cost of sales Cost of Sales [Member] Research and development expenses Research and Development Expense [Member] Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Employees Employees [Member] Employees [Member] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items] Stock-based compensation Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Income tax benefit Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials, Gross Components Other Inventory, Gross Work in process Inventory, Work in Process, Gross Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Gross Reserve for excess and obsolete inventory Inventory Valuation Reserves Inventories, net Inventory, Net Ecolink Intelligent Technology, Inc. Ecolink Intelligent Technology, Inc. [Member] Ecolink Intelligent Technology, Inc. Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Trade name Trade Names [Member] Developed technology Developed Technology Rights [Member] Customer relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Order backlog Order or Production Backlog [Member] Cash and cash equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Accounts receivable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables Inventories Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Inventory Prepaid expenses and other current assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Property, plant and equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Non-interest bearing liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Current liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities Net tangible assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed, Net Tangible Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed, Net Tangible Assets Intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Goodwill Goodwill Total purchase price Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Noncontrolling interest in Encore Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Net purchase price Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Less Noncontrolling Interest Less: Contingent consideration Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Cash paid Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Property, plant and equipment, estimated useful life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Intangible asset, estimated useful life Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Inventories, Net and Significant Suppliers Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Business Segment and Foreign Operations Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Individual assets excluding computer equipment Individual Assets Excluding Computer Equipment [Member] Assets Excluding Computer Equipment [Member] Assets purchased in bulk Assets Purchased in Bulk [Member] Assets Purchased in Bulk [Member] Buildings Building [Member] Tooling and equipment Tools, Dies and Molds [Member] Computer equipment Computer Equipment [Member] Software Software and Software Development Costs [Member] Furniture and fixtures Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Leasehold and building improvements Leasehold and Building Improvements [Member] Leasehold and Building Improvements [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Capitalization threshold, minimum useful life Property, Plant and Equipment, Capitalization Threshold, Minimum Useful Life Property, Plant and Equipment, Capitalization Threshold, Minimum Useful Life Capitalization threshold, minimum cost Property, Plant and Equipment, Capitalization Threshold, Minimum Cost Property, Plant and Equipment, Capitalization Threshold, Minimum Cost Estimated useful life Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Other Income (Expense), Net Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Currency [Axis] Currency [Axis] Currency [Domain] All Currencies [Domain] Euro Euro Member Countries, Euro Chinese Yuan Renminbi China, Yuan Renminbi USD Brazil, Brazil Real Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Not designated as hedging instrument Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Foreign Currency Exchange Contract Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Foreign Currency Exchange Contract, One Foreign Exchange Forward, Contract One [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward, Contract One [Member] Foreign Currency Exchange Contract, Two Foreign Exchange Forward, Contract Two [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward, Contract Two [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward, Contract Three Foreign Exchange Forward, Contract Three [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward, Contract Three [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward, Contract Four Foreign Exchange Forward, Contract Four [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward, Contract Four [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Notional Value Derivative, Notional Amount Forward Rate Derivative, Forward Exchange Rate Unrealized Gain/(Loss) Recorded at Balance Sheet Date Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Exercise Price Range [Axis] Exercise Price Range [Axis] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] $18.25 to $21.95 Exercise Price Range 1 [Member] Exercise Price Range 1 [Member] 26.48 to 27.74 Exercise Price Range 2 [Member] Exercise Price Range 2 [Member] 35.28 Exercise Price Range 3 [Member] Exercise Price Range 3 [Member] 51.38 to 65.54 Exercise Price Range 4 [Member] Exercise Price Range 4 [Member] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Range of exercise prices, lower range limit (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit Range of exercise prices, upper range limit (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit Options outstanding (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Options outstanding, weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercisable at the end of the year (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Exercisable at the end of the year (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Business Combinations Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Unrecognized tax benefits including interest and penalties Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Including Income Tax Interest and Penalties Accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Including Income Tax Interest and Penalties Accrued Interest and penalties Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense Schedule reconciliation of gross unrecognized tax benefits Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Balance at beginning of period Unrecognized Tax Benefits Additions as a result of tax provisions taken during the current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Subtractions as a result of tax provisions taken during the prior year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Foreign currency translation Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Foreign Currency Translation Foreign currency translation Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Foreign Currency Translation Lapse in statute of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Settlements Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Other Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase (Decrease), Other Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase (Decrease), Other Balance at end of period Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Decrease in unrecognized tax benefits is reasonably possible in next 12 months Decrease in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible Net adjustment to deferred income tax expense Tax Cuts And Jobs Act, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Tax Cuts And Jobs Act, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Provisional transition tax obligation Tax Cuts And Jobs Act, Incomplete Accounting, Transition Tax For Accumulated Foreign Earnings, Related Transactions, Provisional Income Tax Expense Tax Cuts And Jobs Act, Incomplete Accounting, Transition Tax For Accumulated Foreign Earnings, Related Transactions, Provisional Income Tax Expense Number of Options (in 000's) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding at beginning of the year (in shares) Granted (in shares) Exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Forfeited/canceled/expired (in shares) Outstanding at end of the year (in shares) Vested and expected to vest at the end of the year (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Number Weighted-Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Outstanding at beginning of the year (in dollars per share) Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Forfeited/canceled/expired (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding at end of the year (in dollars per share) Vested and expected to vest at the end of the year (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercisable at the end of the year (in dollars per share) Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term and Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Outstanding at end of the year, term Vested and expected to vest at the end of the year, term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Exercisable at the end of the year, term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Outstanding at end of the year Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Vested and expected to vest at the end of the year Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Exercisable at the end of the year Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Number of shares called by warrants (in shares) (up to) Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Warrants or Rights Exercise price of warrants (in dollars per share) Class of Warrant or Right, Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights Number of vesting periods Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Vesting Periods Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Vesting Periods Term of successive vesting periods (in years) Class of Warrant or Right, Term of Successive Vesting Periods Class of Warrant or Right, Term of Successive Vesting Periods Vesting period one (in years) Class of Warrant or Right, Vesting Period One Class of Warrant or Right, Vesting Period One Supply threshold, amount Class of Warrant or Right, Supply Threshold, Amount Class of Warrant or Right, Supply Threshold, Amount Total vesting period (in years) Class of Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Class of Warrant or Right, Vesting Period Warrants vested Class of Warrant or Right, Vested Class of Warrant or Right, Vested Maximum potential warrants that will vest (in shares) Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Restricted stock awards Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Securities excluded from computation of earnings per common share (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Net Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] BASIC Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Weighted-average common shares outstanding for basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to Universal Electronics Inc. (in dollars per share) DILUTED Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Dilutive effect of stock options, restricted stock and common stock warrants (in shares) Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Weighted-average common shares outstanding on a diluted basis (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to Universal Electronics Inc. (in dollars per share) Machinery and equipment Machinery and Equipment [Member] Tooling Leasehold and building improvements Leasehold Improvements [Member] Other Property, Plant and Equipment, Other Types [Member] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] People's Republic of China (PRC) CHINA Property, plant and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, plant and equipment, net, excluding construction in progress Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, Excluding Construction in Progress Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, Excluding Construction in Progress Construction in progress Construction in Progress, Gross Total property, plant, and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Depreciation expense Depreciation Impairment of China factory equipment Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Schedule of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Components of Intangible Assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Intangible Assets Amortization Expense Finite-lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Estimated Future Amortization Expense Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Receivables [Abstract] Accounts Receivable, Net, Current [Abstract] Accounts Receivable, Net, Current [Abstract] Trade receivables, gross Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Allowance for sales returns Allowance for Sales Returns Allowance for sales returns. Net trade receivables Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Other Other Receivables, Net, Current Accounts receivable, net Receivables, Net, Current Advertising and marketing Accrued Advertising And Marketing Costs, Current Accrued Advertising and Marketing Costs, Current Deferred revenue Deferred Revenue, Current Deposit for sale of Guangzhou factory Accrued Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses, Escrow Deposit Accrued Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses, Escrow Deposit Duties Accrued Duties, Current Accrued duties. Freight and handling fees Accrued Freight and Handling Fees, Current Accrued Freight and Handling Fees, Current Product development Accrued Product Development Costs, Current Accrued Product Development Costs, Current Product warranty claim costs Product Warranty Accrual, Current Professional fees Accrued Professional Fees, Current Property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Current Property, Plant and Equipment, Current Sales taxes and VAT Sales and Excise Tax Payable, Current Short-term contingent consideration Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability, Current Third-party commissions Accrued Nonemployee Sales Commission, Current Accrued Nonemployee Sales Commission, Current Tooling Unearned Tooling Revenue, Current Unearned Tooling Revenue Unrealized loss on foreign currency exchange contracts Unrealized Loss on Foreign Currency Exchange Futures Contracts, Current Unrealized Loss on Foreign Currency Exchange Futures Contracts, Current URC court order and settlement agreement URC Court Order, Current URC Court Order, Current Utilities Accrued Utilities, Current Other Other Accrued Expenses, Current Other Accrued Expenses, Current. 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Minimum service period of employees to be eligible under plan Defined Benefit Plan, Requisite Service Period Defined Benefit Plan, Requisite Service Period Number of days salary payable under termination, resignation, or retirement Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Accrual Term Per Year Of Service Provided Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Accrual Term Per Year Of Service Provided Schedule of Components of Other Income (Expense), Net Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Table Text Block] Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Table] Income Tax Authority, Name [Axis] Income Tax Authority, Name [Axis] Income Tax Authority, Name [Domain] Income Tax Authority, Name [Domain] State Administration of Taxation, China State Administration of Taxation, China [Member] Income Taxes [Line Items] Income Taxes [Line Items] [Line Items] for Income Taxes [Table] Provision for undistributed earnings of our foreign subsidiaries Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Provision for Undistributed Foreign Earnings Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Provision for Undistributed Foreign Earnings Period of recognition for deductible expenses or deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Asset, Period of Recognition for Deductible Expenses Deferred Tax Asset, Period of Recognition for Deductible Expenses Increase in income tax expense due to write-off of deferred tax assets for social insurance and housing funds Increase In Income Tax Expense due to Write-Off Deferred Tax Assets for Social Insurance and Housing Funds Increase In Income Tax Expense due to Write-Off Deferred Tax Assets for Social Insurance and Housing Funds Changes in the liability for product warranty claim costs Movement in Standard Product Warranty Accrual [Roll Forward] Balance at beginning of period Standard and Extended Product Warranty Accrual Accruals for warranties issued during the period Standard and Extended Product Warranty Accrual, Increase for Warranties Issued Settlements (in cash or in kind) during the period Standard and Extended Product Warranty Accrual, Decrease for Payments Balance at end of period Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Description of Business Nature of Operations [Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Employee Severance Employee Severance [Member] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Manufacturing Activities Transition Manufacturing Activities Transition [Member] Manufacturing Activities Transition [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Employee-related Liabilities, Current Employee-related Liabilities, Current [Member] Employee-related Liabilities, Current [Member] Operating Expense Operating Expense [Member] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Guangzhou Factory Guangzhou Factory [Member] Guangzhou Factory [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Factory transition restructuring charges Restructuring Charges Unpaid restructuring costs Restructuring Reserve Consideration Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Consideration Period to cease operations (up to) Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Period to Cease Operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Period to Cease 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Local Income Taxes, Amount Foreign tax rate differential Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount Foreign undistributed earnings, net of credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Repatriation of Foreign Earnings, Amount Nondeductible items Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Amount Federal research and development credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Research, Amount Non-territorial income Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deduction, Extraterritorial Income Exclusion, Amount Withholding tax Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Withholding Tax Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Withholding Tax Change in deductibility of social insurance Income Tax Reconciliation, Change in Deductibility of Social Insurance Income Tax Reconciliation, Change in Deductibility of Social Insurance Uncertain tax positions Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Uncertain Tax 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[Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill beginning balance Goodwill acquired during the period Goodwill, Acquired During Period Foreign exchange effects Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Goodwill closing balance Other Accrued Liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities [Member] Other Accrued Liabilities [Member] Long-term Contingent Consideration Long-term Contingent Consideration [Member] Long-term Contingent Consideration [Member] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Encore Controls LLC Encore Controls LLC [Member] Encore Controls LLC Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Valuation Technique [Axis] Valuation Technique [Axis] Valuation Technique [Domain] 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Contingency, Number of Subsidiaries Named in Lawsuit Loss Contingency, Number of Subsidiaries Named in Lawsuit Number of customers named in lawsuit Loss Contingency, Number of Customers Named in Lawsuit Loss Contingency, Number of Customers Named in Lawsuit Number of products named in lawsuit Loss Contingency, Patents Allegedly Infringed, Number of Products Loss Contingency, Patents Allegedly Infringed, Number of Products Number of patents allegedly infringed upon Loss Contingency, Patents Allegedly Infringed, Number Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and entity information. Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Share Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] Revenue, Net Sales [Member] Trade Accounts Receivable Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Major Customer [Axis] Customer [Axis] Name of Major 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Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Common Stock Issued Common Stock [Member] Common Stock in Treasury Treasury Stock [Member] Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interest Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance (in shares) Shares, Outstanding Beginning balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Beginning balance, adjusted Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Adjusted Balance Net income (loss) Currency translation adjustment Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Shares issued for employee benefit plan and compensation (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Shares issued for employee benefit plan and compensation Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Purchase of treasury shares (in shares) Purchase of treasury shares Stock options exercised (in shares) Stock options exercised Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Shares Issued to Directors (in shares) Shares Issued to Directors Shares Shares issued to Directors, shares Shares issued to directors Shares Issued To Directors, Value Shares Issued To Directors, Value Employee and director stock-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Tax benefit from exercise of non-qualified stock options and vested restricted stock Adjustment to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Effect from Share-based Compensation, Net Business combination Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Performance-based common stock warrants Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Warrant Issued Distribution to noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Deconsolidation of Encore Controls LLC Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Deconsolidation Ending balance (in shares) Ending balance Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash provided by operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Provision for doubtful accounts Provision for inventory write-downs Inventory Write-down Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Tax benefit from exercise of stock options and vested restricted stock Tax Benefit from Stock Options Exercised and Vested Restricted Stock Tax benefit from stock options exercised and vested restricted stock. Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Shares issued for employee benefit plan Shares Issued for Employee Benefit Plan Shares issued for employee benefit plan. Employee and director stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Performance-based common stock warrants Fair Value Adjustment of Warrants Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Restricted cash Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash for Operating Activities Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Receivables Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Prepaid expenses and other assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Accounts payable and accrued expenses Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Accrued income taxes Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash used for investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Acquisitions of property, plant, and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Acquisition of net assets of Residential Control Systems, Inc. Acquisition of intangible assets Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets Increase in restricted cash Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Deposit received toward sale of Guangzhou factory Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses, Escrow Deposit Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses, Escrow Deposit Deconsolidation of Encore Controls LLC Proceeds from Divestiture of Interest in Consolidated Subsidiaries Acquisition of net assets of Ecolink Intelligent Technology, Inc., net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Net cash used for investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash provided by (used for) financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Borrowings under line of credit Proceeds from Lines of Credit Repayments on line of credit Repayments of Lines of Credit Treasury stock purchased Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Distribution to noncontrolling interest Payments to Noncontrolling Interests Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Supplemental cash flow information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Income taxes paid Income Taxes Paid Interest paid Interest Paid Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract] Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash Cash and Cash Equivalents Disclosure [Text Block] Capitalized software development Software Development [Member] Intangible asset, estimated period of benefit Fair value (in dollars per share) Class of Warrant or Right, Fair Value Class of Warrant or Right, Fair Value Price of Universal Electronics Inc. common stock (in dollars per share) Share Price Risk-free interest rate Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected volatility Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Expected life in years Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Line of Credit Line of Credit [Member] Letter of Credit Letter of Credit [Member] Lender Name [Axis] Lender Name [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] US Bank US Bank [Member] US Bank [Member] Enson Enson [Member] Enson Member. Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Base rate Base Rate [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Letter of credit outstanding amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Subsidiary ownership percentage securing facility Line of Credit Facility, Covenants, Subsidiary Ownership Percentage Securing Facility Line of Credit Facility, Covenants, Subsidiary Ownership Percentage Securing Facility Basis spread on variable rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Effective interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Commitment fees Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Amount Credit line outstanding Line of Credit, Current Total interest expense on borrowings Interest Expense, Short-term Borrowings Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table] Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table] South America South America [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items] Total cash and cash equivalents Restricted Cash and Investments [Abstract] Restricted Cash and Investments [Abstract] Long-term restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive income (loss): Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Change in foreign currency translation adjustment Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Total comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Universal Electronics Inc. Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Treasury stock, shares (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares Rent expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Future minimum non-cancelable operating lease payments Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total operating lease commitments Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Lease Arrangement, Type [Axis] Lease Arrangement, Type [Axis] Lease Arrangement, Type [Domain] Lease Arrangement, Type [Domain] Property subject to rent escalations Property Subject to Rent Escalations [Member] Property Subject to Rent Escalations [Member] Corporate headquarters Corporate Headquarters [Member] Corporate Headquarters [Member] Term of lease Lessee, Operating Lease, Term of Contract Liability related to rent escalations Accrued Rent Allowance for moving expenses and tenant improvements Operating Leases, Allowance for Moving Expenses and Tenant Improvements Operating Leases, Allowance for Moving Expenses and Tenant Improvements Performance-Based Common Stock Warrants Warrants Disclosure [Text Block] Warrants Disclosure [Text Block] Accounts Receivable, Net and Revenue Concentrations Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Leases Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Inventories, Net Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of Reserve for Excess and Obsolete Inventory Inventory Valuation Reserves [Table Text Block] Inventory valuation reserves. Schedule of Significant Supplier Transactions Schedules of Concentration of Risk, by Risk Factor [Table Text Block] Schedule of Related Party Transactions Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Summarized Quarterly Financial Data Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block] Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Reduction to net sales Class of Warrant or Right, Contra Revenue Class of Warrant or Right, Contra Revenue Income tax benefit Class of Warrant or Right, Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Class of Warrant or Right, Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Schedule of Reserve for Excess and Obsolete Inventory Inventory Reserve [Roll Forward] Inventory Reserve [Roll Forward] Balance at beginning of period Additions charged to costs and expenses Inventory Valuation Reserve, Period Charge Additions to costs and expenses. Sell through Inventory Valuation Reserve, Adjustments, Sales Inventory Valuation Reserve, Adjustments, Sales (Write-offs)/Foreign exchange effects Inventory Valuation Reserve, Write-Offs And Effect Of Exchange Rate Charge to cost of goods sold that represents the reduction of the carrying amount of inventory, generally attributable to obsolescence or market conditions. Balance at end of period Inventory scrapped during production Inventory Scrapped During Production Inventory Scrapped During Production Line of Credit Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] 1999A Stock Incentive Plan Stock Incentive Plan 1999A [Member] Stock Incentive Plan 1999A [Member] 2003 Stock Incentive Plan Stock Incentive Plan 2003 [Member] Stock Incentive Plan 2003 [Member] 2006 Stock Incentive Plan Stock Incentive Plan 2006 [Member] Stock Incentive Plan 2006 [Member] 2010 Stock Incentive Plan Stock Incentive Plan 2010 [Member] Stock Incentive Plan 2010 [Member] 2014 Stock Incentive Plan Stock Incentive Plan 2014 [Member] Stock Incentive Plan 2014 [Member] Stock appreciation rights and performance stock units Stock Appreciation Rights and Performance Stock Units [Member] Stock Appreciation Rights and Performance Stock Units [Member] Term of plans / awards Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period Awards granted to date (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Awards, Cumulative Grants to Date Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Awards, Cumulative Grants to Date Initial Shares Available for Grant Under the Plan Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Remaining Shares Available for Grant Under the Plan Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Outstanding Shares Granted Under the Plan Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options and Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Outstanding, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options and Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Outstanding, Number ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Inventories, net Prepaid expenses and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Assets held for sale Income tax receivable Income Taxes Receivable, Current Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property, plant, and equipment, net Goodwill Intangible assets, net Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Line of credit Accrued compensation Accrued sales discounts, rebates and royalties Accrued Sales Discounts Rebates and Royalties, Current Accrued Sales Discounts Rebates and Royalties, Current Accrued income taxes Accrued Income Taxes, Current Other accrued liabilities Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term liabilities: Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Income tax payable Accrued Income Taxes, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized; none issued or outstanding Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, $0.01 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized; 23,760,434 and 23,575,340 shares issued on December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Treasury stock, at cost, 9,702,874 and 9,022,587 shares on December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively Treasury Stock, Value Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Retained earnings Total stockholders' equity Total liabilities and stockholders' equity Liabilities and Equity Schedule Of Long-lived Assets From Geographical Segments [Table] Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Total long-lived tangible assets Long-Lived Assets Income Statement [Abstract] Cost of sales Cost of Goods and Services Sold Gross profit Research and development expenses Research and Development Expense Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Operating income Interest income (expense), net Interest Income (Expense), Nonoperating, Net Other income (expense), net Provision for income taxes Net income (loss) Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) attributable to Universal Electronics Inc. Shares used in computing earnings (loss) per share: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Basic (in shares) Diluted (in shares) Treasury Stock Treasury Stock [Text Block] Treasury Stock Class of Treasury Stock [Table Text Block]