| Document and Entity Information | Jun. 03, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | VICOR CORP |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000751978 |
| Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jun. 3, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 0-18277 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 04-2742817 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 25 Frontage Road |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Andover |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 01810 |
| City Area Code | (978) |
| Local Phone Number | 470-2900 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, par value$0.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | VICR |
