Earnings (Loss) Per Share - Calculation of Earnings Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
BASIC
Net income (loss)	$ (587)	$ 119
Weighted-average common shares outstanding (in shares)	14,087	14,449
Basic earnings per share attributable to Universal Electronics Inc. (in dollars per share)	$ (0.04)	$ 0.01
DILUTED
Net income (loss)	$ (587)	$ 119
Weighted-average common shares outstanding (in shares)	14,087	14,449
Dilutive effect of stock options, restricted stock and common stock warrants (in shares)	0	268
Weighted-average common shares outstanding on a diluted basis (in shares)	14,087	14,717
Diluted earnings per share attributable to Universal Electronics Inc. (in dollars per share)	$ (0.04)	$ 0.01