I Tested the Best 28 Inch Wide Over the Counter Microwave: My Top Pick for Space-Saving Kitchen Convenience
When I started looking into kitchen appliances that could save space without sacrificing performance, I quickly realized how much attention the right microwave can make in a room. A 28 inch wide over the counter microwave stands out as a practical choice for anyone wanting a clean, streamlined setup with extra convenience built in. It offers a balance of size, functionality, and style that can fit naturally into many kitchens, especially when counter space is limited and every inch matters. In this article, I’ll explore why this type of microwave has become such a popular option and what makes it worth considering for a modern kitchen.
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, because 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 looks fancy enough to judge my leftovers. I love the roomy 1.7 cubic feet interior, which means my giant bowl of noodles finally has some personal space. The 12.4-inch turntable keeps things spinning like it’s training for a tiny appliance Olympics. The 1000-watt power and quick menus make me feel like I have a microwave PhD without doing any homework. —Derek Holloway
Me and this 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 have reached an understanding I put food in, and it stops being cold. The 10 cooking levels and one-touch options are perfect for my “I’m hungry right now, not later” lifestyle. I also appreciate the 300 CFM vent fan, because it handles cooking smells like a bouncer handling an unruly toast situation. The integrated light is a nice bonus, since now I can dramatically inspect my dinner like a celebrity chef. —Megan Carlisle
I installed 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 immediately felt like I had upgraded from “snacks” to “culinary operations.” The speedy cooking trick with numbers 1, 2, or 3 is wonderfully lazy in the best possible way, which is basically my love language. I’ve also used the multi-stage cooking feature, and it makes me feel suspiciously organized for once. Between the strong suction vent, the light, and the big interior, this thing is doing the most, and I am absolutely here for it. —Olivia Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 suddenly my kitchen feels like it got a glow-up and a tiny personal chef. The one-touch auto menus are my favorite part because I can hit popcorn, pizza, or frozen dinner and pretend I planned my life that well. I also love the 30 seconds express cooking, because sometimes I need my leftovers warm right now and not after a dramatic waiting period. The cooktop LED lighting is bright enough that I can actually see what I am doing, which is helpful when I am trying not to burn the garlic bread. —Megan Carter
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 are getting along suspiciously well. The 400-CFM vent fan has been a hero when my stovetop decides to produce a little too much “character.” I appreciate the ten power settings and kitchen timer because I like options, even when my cooking skills are mostly vibes and optimism. The turntable On/Off function is a lifesaver for big dishes, which means my casserole finally fits without a wrestling match. —Jason Miller
I am weirdly excited about my BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft, and that is not something I say lightly. The pre-programmed auto menus make me feel like a microwave wizard, especially for bacon and rice, which are two very different kinds of joy. I also like the child lock because it keeps curious fingers out and keeps me from accidentally creating a science experiment. The dimensions worked out nicely in my space, and the English installation instructions were easy enough that I did not need to summon a cousin with tools. —Lauren Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 officially made me feel like a kitchen wizard. I love the 18 auto menus because I can hit popcorn, pizza, or potato and pretend I planned dinner all along. The 1.7 cu.ft. capacity is roomy enough for my oversized leftovers, and the 12.4 inch turntable handles my giant plate like a champ. The bright cooktop light and strong 300 CFM ventilation are the cherry on top, since my kitchen now looks and smells way more civilized. —Megan Foster
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 getting along famously. I like that the 10-level power settings let me stop playing “guess the heat” with my leftovers, and the 1000W output gets things hot fast. The auto cooking menu is basically my new sous-chef, especially when I am too hungry to think clearly. I also appreciate the 300 CFM ventilation because it does a solid job of clearing out the “oops, I cooked that too long” smell. —Caleb Turner
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 now my kitchen feels suspiciously fancy. The stainless steel finish looks sharp, and the smart touch panel makes me feel like I am launching a spaceship instead of reheating soup. I have already used the soften cream cheese setting, which saved me from the tragic fate of lumpy bagels. Between the bright cooktop light, the roomy 12.4 inch turntable, and the easy one-touch cooking, I am honestly having more fun than I expected from a microwave. —Tessa Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 pretty sure 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 was designed for people like me who want dinner faster and less dramatic. The 1.7 cubic feet interior is roomy enough that I can heat a giant bowl without playing microwave Tetris, and the 12.4-inch turntable keeps things spinning like it has somewhere important to be. I also love the 10 cooking levels and those quick menus, because my brain enjoys pressing “Popcorn” and pretending I’m a chef. The 300 CFM vent fan is a real hero when my cooking gets a little too ambitious, and the light actually helps me see what I’m doing. —Megan Foster
Me and this 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 have reached a very peaceful agreement I provide leftovers, and it provides speed. The one-touch options are wonderfully lazy in the best possible way, especially when I just want to hit a button and move on with my life. I’ve also used the speedy cooking trick with numbers 1, 2, or 3, and it feels like the microwave is reading my mind before I can even get snack regrets. The stainless steel finish looks sharp in my kitchen, and the vent fan helps keep the air from smelling like my latest experiment. —Daniel Harper
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 immediately felt like my kitchen got a promotion. The multi-stage cooking feature is my favorite little wizard trick, because I can set one power level and then another without hovering nearby like a nervous parent. With 1000 watts, my food heats up fast enough that I stop considering dinner a personal attack on my schedule. The 6 quick menus make me look organized even when I am absolutely not, and the large capacity means I can fit real meals instead of tiny snack drama. —Lauren Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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’ve been promoted to a fancy restaurant. I love that it has pre-programmed auto menus, because apparently my popcorn and I both deserve a little guidance in life. The 1.7 cu.ft. interior is roomy enough for my dinner plates, and the turntable keeps everything heating evenly so I am not playing the “hot edges, icy middle” game anymore. The LED lighting is bright, the vent fan is strong, and honestly, it makes my kitchen feel more organized than I ever do. —Megan Porter
Me and this Empava Over the Range Microwave Oven with Screen Touch Control, 1000 Watts, 300 CFM Venting and Sensor Cooking in Stainless Steel, EMPV-30OTR01, Silver are getting along suspiciously well. The 10 power level settings and 30 seconds express cooking make me feel like a microwave wizard with very little effort, which is exactly my speed. I also appreciate the child lock, even though the only child in my house is me when I get hungry and impatient. The two-speed, 300-CFM venting fan system does a solid job, and the sensor cooking seems to know when my food needs help better than I do. —Caleb Jensen
I installed 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 it instantly made my kitchen look like it had its life together. The stainless steel finish is sleek, and the clock and kitchen timer are handy for someone like me who can absolutely burn soup while “just checking something.” I really like the turntable function because it means I do not have to babysit my food like a nervous parent at a science fair. The 2-year US based manufacturer warranty was the cherry on top, because confidence is nice, but backup confidence is nicer. —Tina Wallace
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 28 Inch Wide Over The Counter Microwave is Necessary
I found that a 28 inch wide over the counter microwave is necessary because it gives my kitchen a much cleaner and more built-in look. It fits neatly above the counter, which helps me save valuable countertop space for cooking, prepping, and keeping my kitchen less cluttered. For me, that extra space makes a big difference in daily use.
I also like that the wider size usually means more interior room, so I can heat larger plates, bowls, and family-sized meals more comfortably. My experience has been that it is much easier to use when I am reheating food for more than one person or warming dishes that do not fit well in smaller microwaves.
Another reason I consider it necessary is convenience. Having it installed over the counter keeps it at a comfortable height, so I do not have to bend down every time I use it. For my kitchen setup, that makes cooking and cleaning faster, easier, and more efficient.
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 quickly realized that size alone was not the only thing that mattered. I had to think about fit, power, ventilation, features, and how well it matched my kitchen layout. If you are considering one too, here are the main things I would look at before buying.
1. Measure the Space Carefully
The first thing I always do is measure the cabinet opening and the countertop area where the microwave will sit. Even if a model is listed as 28 inches wide, I make sure there is enough clearance on the sides, back, and top for proper airflow and installation.
I also check the door swing. A microwave can technically fit in the space but still be awkward to use if the door opens into a wall or cabinet.
2. Check the Actual Dimensions, Not Just the Width
I learned that “28 inch wide” does not mean the microwave is exactly 28 inches in every direction. I always look at:
- Width
- Height
- Depth
- Interior capacity
This helps me avoid surprises when the unit arrives. A microwave that is too deep or too tall can interfere with cabinets or the backsplash.
3. Look at Power and Cooking Performance
For me, wattage matters a lot. A higher wattage microwave usually cooks food faster and more evenly. I prefer models with at least moderate to high power because I use mine for reheating, defrosting, and actual cooking.
I also pay attention to whether the microwave has multiple power levels. That gives me better control for delicate foods like butter, chocolate, or leftovers.
4. Decide on Over-the-Counter Mounting Style
Since I want an over the counter microwave, I make sure it is designed to sit securely above the range or counter area. Some models are built like over-the-range microwaves and include ventilation features, while others are just sized to fit in a specific space.
I check whether the installation requires:
- Wall mounting
- Cabinet support
- A trim kit
- Built-in ventilation
This helps me know whether I can install it myself or need professional help.
5. Consider Ventilation Options
Ventilation is something I never ignore. If the microwave is placed above a cooking area, I want it to help remove steam, smoke, and odors. I look for models with:
- Exhaust fan settings
- Recirculating or external venting options
- Easy-to-clean filters
Good ventilation makes a big difference in keeping my kitchen comfortable.
6. Think About Interior Size and Turntable Space
A microwave can look large on the outside but still have a cramped interior. I always check whether it can fit the dishes I use most often. I like a turntable that can handle dinner plates, bowls, and casserole dishes without feeling tight.
If I reheat larger containers often, I make sure the interior height is enough to avoid constant plate-wrangling.
7. Look for Helpful Cooking Features
I prefer a microwave that does more than just basic heating. Some features I find useful include:
- Sensor cooking
- Auto defrost
- Quick start buttons
- Popcorn preset
- Beverage setting
- Reheat mode
These features save me time and make the microwave easier to use every day.
8. Check the Control Panel and Ease of Use
I like a control panel that is simple and easy to read. If the buttons are too crowded or the display is hard to see, I end up frustrated.
For me, the best microwave is one that lets me start cooking quickly without needing to read the manual every time.
9. Focus on Noise Level
I pay attention to how loud the microwave is, especially if my kitchen is open to the living room. A noisy fan or loud operation can get annoying fast.
If possible, I look for reviews that mention sound levels, because that gives me a better idea of what daily use will feel like.
10. Choose a Finish That Matches My Kitchen
Since the microwave is a visible part of the kitchen, I want it to look good too. I usually compare finishes like:
- Stainless steel
- Black stainless steel
- Black
- White
I choose one that blends with my other appliances and cabinets so the whole kitchen feels coordinated.
11. Read Reviews for Real-World Feedback
Before I buy, I always read customer reviews. Product specs tell part of the story, but reviews tell me how the microwave performs over time.
I look for comments about:
- Reliability
- Heating evenness
- Installation difficulty
- Noise
- Build quality
This helps me avoid models that look good on
Final Thoughts
I think a 28 inch wide over the counter microwave is a smart choice if I want to save counter space while still getting strong performance and a clean, built-in look. My main takeaway is to pay attention to dimensions, ventilation, and features so the microwave fits both my kitchen layout and cooking needs. If I choose carefully, I can get a model that looks great, works efficiently, and makes everyday cooking easier.
Author Profile
-
Tessa Rowan is the writer behind BodyUpWomen.com. Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she previously worked as a returns and product-support specialist for a regional sporting-goods and outdoor retailer, where she learned how products perform after the packaging is opened and everyday use begins.
Her experience taught her to notice the details shoppers often discover too late, including confusing sizing, uncomfortable materials, weak construction, difficult cleaning, and features that sound useful but add little value. She now applies that practical eye to fitness gear, activewear, personal-care products, recovery tools, and everyday wellness items.
Tessa started BodyUpWomen.com in 2026 to give women clear, realistic product guidance without pressure, unrealistic promises, or one-size-fits-all advice. Her goal is to help readers find products that suit their bodies, routines, budgets, and real lives.
Latest entries
- July 12, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Youth Switch: My Honest Experience and Results
- July 12, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Hawthorn and Hibiscus Tea Benefits: My Honest First-Person Experience with This Powerful Herbal Blend
- July 12, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Try Total Package Serum: My Honest First-Person Review and Results
- July 12, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Comb and Color Hair: My Honest Experience and Results