All Waffen-SS divisions were ordered in a single series of numbers as formed, regardless of type.[1] Those with ethnic groups listed were at least nominally recruited from those groups. Many of the higher-numbered units were divisions in name only, being in reality only small battlegroups (Kampfgruppen).
As a general rule, an "SS Division" is made up of mostly Germans, or other Germanic people, while a "Division of the SS" is made up of mostly non-Germanic volunteers.