Step 1: Install Essential Phone Drivers
If you haven't already, install the Essential Phone drivers. This installs a folder called Essential to your Program Files (x86) directory. Inside that folder, you'll find ADB.exe and Fastboot.exe.
Step 2: Enable Developer Options
Enable Developer options on your phone by going to System --> Developer options. Enable OEM unlocking and USB debugging.
Step 3: Enter Fastboot Mode
Power off your Essential phone. While holding down the Volume Down key, connect it to your computer. Your phone should enter fastboot mode.
Step 4: Open Command Prompt
On your computer, open a Command Prompt, go to the directory where the Essential ADB and Fastboot are located (e.g., cd C:\Program Files (x86)\Essential\ADB).
Step 5: Unlock Bootloader
Type the following command into the Command Prompt and press Enter: fastboot flashing unlock. On the phone, select Yes with the volume buttons and press the Power button to confirm.
Step 6: Wipe and Reboot
Your phone will be wiped and the bootloader will be unlocked. It will automatically reboot.
Step 7: Rooting with Magisk
After unlocking the bootloader, set up your phone again, reinstall apps, and restore data. Download and install Magisk Manager on your phone. Open it, click "Install", and select the "Patch Boot Image File" option. Magisk will create a new patched boot image file.
Step 8: Flash Patched Boot Image
After Magisk patches the boot image, pull the patched image with the following command: adb pull /sdcard/Download/magisk_patched.img. Then type: fastboot flash boot magisk_patched.img to flash it to your device.
Step 9: Reboot and Complete!
Your phone is now rooted! Reboot your phone to complete the process.