Equity - Effects of Change in Ownership (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Net income (loss) attributable to Archrock stockholders	$ 12,968	$ 9,974	$ 1,937	$ (3,816)	$ 47,560	$ (10,235)	$ (6,687)	$ (11,685)	$ 21,063	$ 18,953	$ (54,555)
Increase in Archrock stockholders’ additional paid-in capital for purchase of Partnership common units									56,845	17,638	18,464
Change from net loss attributable to Archrock stockholders and transfers from noncontrolling interest									$ 77,908	$ 36,591	$ (36,091)

The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent.

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