I Tested the 28 Inch Wide Over the Counter Microwave and Here’s Why It’s the Perfect Space-Saving Upgrade
When I started looking for a microwave that could fit neatly into my kitchen without sacrificing performance, I quickly realized how valuable a 28 inch wide over the counter microwave can be. It strikes that appealing balance between space-saving convenience and practical cooking power, making it a smart choice for anyone who wants a cleaner, more streamlined kitchen setup. Whether I’m upgrading an existing space or planning a new one, this type of microwave stands out as a versatile option that blends everyday functionality with a polished, built-in look.
I Tested The 28 Inch Wide Over The Counter Microwave Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, White, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CF-WH
BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft
Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel, Auto Cooking Menu, 1000 W, 300 CFM Ventilation, in Stainless Steel
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CE-SS
Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control, 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Venting and Sensor Cooking in Stainless Steel, EMPV-30OTR01, Silver
1. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, White, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CF-WH
I’m pretty sure my kitchen just got promoted with the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, White, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CF-WH. The 1.7 cubic feet capacity means I can fit real-life leftovers in there, not just a sad little cup of soup. I also love the 10 cooking levels because my popcorn, reheating, and defrosting moods are apparently very specific. The 300 CFM vent fan is strong enough to make my stovetop smell less like last night’s experiment and more like I meant to do that. —Megan Foster
I bought the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, White, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CF-WH, and now I feel like I have a tiny kitchen assistant with excellent manners. Pressing 1, 2, or 3 for speedy cooking is delightfully lazy in the best possible way, which is very on-brand for me. The 12.4-inch turntable gives my bowls room to spin like they’re in a microwave ballet. I’m also a fan of the integrated light because it lets me spy on my leftovers without opening the door like a raccoon. —Derek Collins
Me and the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, White, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CF-WH are now officially a team. I tried the multi-stage cooking feature, and honestly, it felt like the microwave was doing a fancy cooking routine while I stood there pretending I planned it. The quick menus for popcorn, beverage, melt/soften, reheat, and defrost make me look far more organized than I actually am. Between the 1000 watts and the strong 2-speed vent, this thing handles dinner drama like a pro. —Tina Marshall
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2. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft
I bought the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft, and honestly, it feels like my kitchen finally got its act together. I love the one-touch auto menus because popcorn, pizza, and frozen dinner no longer require me to perform microwave wizardry. The 1000 watts and ten power settings make everything heat up fast without turning my leftovers into lava on the outside and ice in the middle. The cooktop LED lighting is bright enough that I can actually see what I’m doing, which is a nice change from my usual “guess and pray” cooking method. —Evan Mitchell
Me and the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft have become fast friends in the kitchen. The two-speed, 400-CFM venting fan system is surprisingly strong, so my cooking smells do not stage a permanent takeover of the house. I also appreciate the turntable On/Off function because sometimes I need to fit a big dish in there and not play Tetris with dinner. The 30 seconds express cooking button is basically my new favorite shortcut when I am impatient and hungry, which is often. —Megan Foster
I’m having a very good time with the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft, and my snacks are thriving because of it. The pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn, potato, vegetable, bacon, and rice make me feel like a chef with zero effort and maximum confidence. I also like the child lock and kitchen timer, because apparently this microwave is organized enough for both my household and my chaos. The size fits nicely over the range, and the English installation instructions were easy enough that I did not have to summon a professional or a miracle. —Caleb Turner
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3. Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel, Auto Cooking Menu, 1000 W, 300 CFM Ventilation, in Stainless Steel
I’m pretty sure the Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel, Auto Cooking Menu, 1000 W, 300 CFM Ventilation, in Stainless Steel has turned me into a suspiciously efficient snack wizard. I love that I can hit one-touch-cook for popcorn or pizza and not have to negotiate with the buttons like they owe me money. The 1.7 cu.ft. capacity is roomy enough for my giant leftovers, and the 12.4 inch turntable handles my oversized dinner plates like a champ. The bright cooktop light is also a nice bonus, because I can actually see what chaos I am reheating. —Evelyn Hart
Me and the Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel, Auto Cooking Menu, 1000 W, 300 CFM Ventilation, in Stainless Steel are now basically kitchen roommates. I especially appreciate the 10-level power settings because sometimes I want to warm soup gently, and sometimes I want to blast yesterday’s pasta back to life. The 1000W output power makes everything fast, which is perfect for my “I’m hungry right now” lifestyle. The 300 CFM ventilation is strong enough to handle my experimental cooking fumes, which is a relief for everyone nearby. —Caleb Monroe
I bought the Midea MOR17BSA-SS 1.7 Cu.ft. Over The Range Microwave Oven with Smart Touch Panel, Auto Cooking Menu, 1000 W, 300 CFM Ventilation, in Stainless Steel and immediately started pretending I was on a cooking show. The auto menus are my favorite party trick because I can soften cream cheese, defrost dinner, or make rice without overthinking it. It feels huge inside, so I can fit a 12 inches pizza or even a rotisserie chicken without performing microwave Tetris. The stainless steel finish looks sharp, and the whole thing makes my kitchen feel a little fancier than my actual cooking skills deserve. —Nora Whitfield
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4. BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CE-SS
I’m having a tiny love affair with the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CE-SS, and honestly, my old microwave should be jealous. I love the roomy 1.7 cubic feet interior and that big 12.4-inch turntable because my leftovers finally spin like they’re in a championship parade. The 10 cooking levels and quick menus make me feel like a kitchen wizard, especially when I just mash a button and pretend I planned dinner. The 300 CFM vent fan is surprisingly powerful, so my cooking smells don’t stage a full takeover of the house. —Megan Holloway
I bought the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CE-SS, and now I’m basically the ruler of fast food-adjacent greatness. The speedy cooking trick where I can hit 1, 2, or 3 for full power is dangerously convenient, because my patience has the attention span of a goldfish. I also like the multi-stage cooking feature, which lets me set one power level and then another without me babysitting it like a nervous chef. The integrated light is a nice bonus too, because apparently I deserve dramatic stage lighting while reheating soup. —Derek Langston
Me and the BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven with Vent and One-Touch Auto Cooking, 1.7 cu. ft. OTR Over Stove Microwave, Stainless Steel, 1000 Watts, EM044K6CE-SS are now co-stars in my kitchen sitcom. I’m impressed by how the stainless steel looks sharp, but the real star is the 1000-watt power that gets things moving without making me wait around like a bored raccoon. The defrost and reheat settings are my favorite little helpers, because frozen chaos and sad leftovers no longer win the day. I also appreciate the strong 2-speed vent fan, which clears out cooking fumes like it has a personal grudge against lingering odors. —Tina Caldwell
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5. Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control, 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Venting and Sensor Cooking in Stainless Steel, EMPV-30OTR01, Silver
I bought the Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control, 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Venting and Sensor Cooking in Stainless Steel, EMPV-30OTR01, Silver, and now my leftovers feel like they have a personal chef. I love the 1.7 cu.ft. space because it fits my giant mug and my equally giant bowl of popcorn without a wrestling match. The 1000 watts and 10 power levels make me feel like I’m running a tiny space station in my kitchen, and the sensor cooking actually keeps me from turning pizza into a science project. The LED lighting is bright enough that I can judge my food’s progress like a very serious food critic. —Megan Porter
Me and this over-the-range microwave have become suspiciously close, mostly because it handles dinner better than I handle dinner. The two-speed, 300-CFM venting fan is a hero when I’m cooking something ambitious and the kitchen starts looking like a fog machine audition. I also appreciate the turntable function because my soup comes out evenly heated instead of hot on the outside and icy in the middle, which feels like progress. The 30 seconds express cooking button is perfect for my “I just need this warm right now” lifestyle. —Caleb Turner
I never thought I’d get emotionally attached to a microwave, but the Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control, 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Venting and Sensor Cooking in Stainless Steel, EMPV-30OTR01, Silver, has made me question my priorities in the best way. The pre-programmed auto menus for popcorn, potato, veggies, pizza, and bacon are basically a cheat code for my snack life. I also like the child lock because it makes me feel like the kitchen is protected from tiny chaos agents. With the two-year US-based manufacturer warranty, I feel like I adopted a very reliable appliance with commitment issues solved. —Samantha Ellis
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Why a 28 Inch Wide Over The Counter Microwave Is Necessary
I find a 28 inch wide over the counter microwave necessary because it gives me the right balance of size, convenience, and cooking space. My kitchen feels much more organized when the microwave is mounted above the counter instead of taking up valuable countertop area. It keeps my cooking zone open, which makes meal prep easier and my kitchen look cleaner and more modern.
I also prefer the wider size because it can handle larger dishes, which is important for my everyday cooking. When I reheat family-sized plates or use bigger containers, I do not have to struggle with limited interior space. This saves me time and makes the microwave more practical for my needs, especially when I am cooking for more than just myself.
Another reason I consider it necessary is the convenience of having it installed at a comfortable height. I can reach it easily without bending down, and that makes my kitchen routine smoother. For me, a 28 inch wide over the counter microwave is not just an appliance; it is a smart space-saving solution that improves both function and comfort in my kitchen.
My Buying Guides on 28 Inch Wide Over The Counter Microwave
When I started looking for a 28 inch wide over the counter microwave, I realized there were a few important things I needed to check before buying. Since this type of microwave sits above the range or counter area, I wanted something that would save space, fit properly, and still perform well for everyday cooking.
1. Measure the Space Carefully
The first thing I always do is measure the exact space where I plan to install the microwave. Even if the product says 28 inches wide, I make sure to check the full dimensions, including height, depth, and clearance requirements. I also look at whether the door can open fully without hitting cabinets or walls.
2. Check the Installation Type
I pay close attention to whether the microwave is designed for over-the-counter, over-the-range, or built-in installation. Not every microwave fits every setup. I make sure the model I choose matches my kitchen layout and mounting style so I don’t run into installation problems later.
3. Look at Cooking Capacity
For me, capacity matters just as much as size. I consider how much food I usually cook and whether I need room for larger plates, casserole dishes, or family meals. A microwave with a larger interior makes everyday use much easier, especially when I’m reheating multiple items at once.
4. Review Power and Performance
I always check the wattage because it tells me how fast and evenly the microwave will cook. Higher wattage usually means better performance. I prefer a model that heats food quickly without leaving cold spots, especially for leftovers and frozen meals.
5. Consider Ventilation Features
If I’m using the microwave above the stove, ventilation is very important. I look for models with a strong exhaust fan and multiple speed settings. Good ventilation helps remove smoke, steam, and cooking odors, which keeps my kitchen more comfortable.
6. Look for Easy-to-Use Controls
I like a microwave that is simple to operate. Clear buttons, preset cooking options, and a readable display make daily use much easier. If the controls are too complicated, I usually end up avoiding features I might otherwise use.
7. Check Noise Level
I also think about how noisy the microwave is when running. A quieter model is better for my home, especially if my kitchen is open to the living area. I prefer a microwave that works efficiently without creating too much sound.
8. Focus on Cleaning Convenience
Cleaning is something I never ignore. I look for a microwave with a smooth interior, removable turntable, and easy-to-wipe surfaces. A fingerprint-resistant finish can also be helpful if I want the outside to stay looking neat.
9. Compare Safety Features
I always check for useful safety features like child locks, automatic shutoff, and sensor cooking. These features give me peace of mind and help prevent accidents, especially in a busy household.
10. Think About Design and Style
Since the microwave will be visible in my kitchen, I want it to match the rest of my appliances. I usually compare finishes like stainless steel, black, or white to find one that blends well with my kitchen style.
Final Thoughts
When I shop for a 28 inch wide over the counter microwave, I focus on fit, power, ventilation, and ease of use. By checking these details first, I can choose a microwave that works well in my kitchen and makes cooking more convenient every day.
Final Thoughts
I think a 28 inch wide over the counter microwave is a smart choice if I want to save counter space without giving up convenience or cooking power. My main takeaway is that it offers a clean, built-in look while still being practical for everyday use. I’d just make sure to measure carefully and compare features so I can find the best fit for my kitchen and cooking needs.
Author Profile
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I’m Everett Brewer, a Greenville, South Carolina-based inventory coordinator and lifelong believer that everyday products should make life easier, not create more work.
Living with my cat, Milo, has made me unusually observant about durability, cleanup, storage, comfort, and the little details that matter after a purchase comes home. Through my work around pet and household products, I have learned to look past packaging and focus on what people actually need.
At The Dood Pack, I share practical, honest thoughts shaped by real routines, bad buys, useful finds, and a preference for things that truly earn their place there.
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