| Cover | Oct. 28, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Oct. 28, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Avid Technology, Inc. |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-36254 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 04-2977748 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 75 Network Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Burlington |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 01803 |
| City Area Code | 978 |
| Local Phone Number | 640-6789 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $.01 par value |
| Trading Symbol | AVID |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000896841 |
