I loved this phone but sadly sold it today because of the signal. I think it goes without saying if you have a strong signal then you'll be fine. However it's when the signal is a bit weaker, like at my work inside an office building, that the essential phone struggles. I compared it directly with my Pixel 2 and I could hold a signal no problem with the Pixel where as the Essential would have no service.
I will look forward to the Essential 2 and I'm sure the reception will be much better.