I didn’t do led tape but in my laundry I installed this low profile under cabinet light and really like it. They can be linked together. They are hardwired but you can also order a plug for $10. There’s an on-off switch but I put mine in a wall switch. Also you can direct the light on the unit. And there’s a set here to change from 2700 to 3000 depending on your need and preference. The piece that I’m touching tilts so you can direct the light. The problem I’ve seen with tape light without a shroud is seeing the reflection from the individual diodes. I am going to install WAC tape for above my bathroom cabinets but they are so expensive. I’m still looking for a lower priced option for my shoe cabinet in closet. Too large of a run for the WAC $ Good luck!

yes use them they will help defuse the light.

I think you'd look good in regular LED stripes. I bought them when I had to decorate my yard for Christmas. I ordered LED car lanes here https://www.vont.com/product/vont-car-smart-strip-light/ . You can also try to buy a car ribbon. And by the way, many of my neighbors loved this idea, and a few days after me, my neighbor Adam repeated it. Next to him, three more neighbors borrowed my idea. Our street became so beautiful and bright. We even consulted each other when changing color or LED mode to look more harmonious. I will not hide. I was very flattered that the first "flash mob LEDs" I started.

yes. LED light strips are basically a row of little tiny bulbs. since your counter is polished, they will likely reflect off of with in little dots of light that personally I think looks unattractive. worse, that might put out an unpleasant glare. the diffuser takes are of all that. (the "dots" would be more noticeable at night with less ambient light around, and also more noticeable with dark counters, but it can still happen with light colors.) if your counter was matte, that might not really be such a problem. but I can see yours is shiny.